Investigating an incident
by Don Ford
Investigating an incident and determining whether it was an accident is very important, as the results may have a detrimental effect to the staff member involved, and it will likely be important for future safety.
When something has been damaged, take photos of the damage, along with several photos of equipment involved and the surrounding area as soon as possible after the event. All photos may be very important, as the area will be cleaned and or repaired, and the photos will provide information during discussions later. Most managers carry a cell phone capable of taking photos.
Make detailed notes, of what happened? There should be more than one person investigating an incident, each person should make their own notes and then as a group review and consolidate the information. Although there will be one person heading the investigation, that one person’s information and opinions, are no more important than others. In other words, if you are a part of the investigation team, your input is necessary and as important as all others. You might see something that others have missed!
It has been suggested, that occasionally someone in authority might have their mind made up about an accident or incident, and forces their opinion onto others involved in the investigation process. In other words, the person in charge rules the investigation team, not allowing everyone to consider everything.
The investigation should explain why the incident happen, was there a violation of safe work procedures, and what could be done to avoid this incident in the future. Investigation results could provide information for future safe work procedures.
To help the investigation team learn proper procedures, there must be practice incidents. It is suggested that a person who is not going to be involved in the investigation, set up an incident. This person’s only involvement should be, setting up the incident scene, and providing a verbal description of what happened.
As a team member, you want to understand;
What happened? When did it happen?
Why did this happen? Who was involved?
Was there any witness?
Often, investigations over look asking those who work in the area, and or those who may have temporarily been in the area what they saw or know about the incident. Coworkers may have information about work habits, product location or equipment concerns that were there before the incident occurred.
Do not assume, investigate!
Don Ford
No comments:
Post a Comment