Briefly explain methods of acquiring accident facts
Answer:-
Methods of Acquiring Accident Facts:
The purpose of acquiring accident facts is to identify all contributing factors to why the incident occurred, rather than settling for incomplete explanations like “worker was careless” or “employee did not follow safety procedures.”
To uncover the root cause, it’s essential to ask “Why?” repeatedly, such as “Why did the employee not follow safety procedures?” The investigation should explore various potential contributing factors, including equipment, environment, people, and management.
Key areas to consider include:
- Hazardous Conditions: Determine if defects in equipment, tools, or materials were contributing factors. Consider whether the condition was recognized, equipment inspections were conducted, the correct equipment was used or available, and if substitute equipment or design flaws played a role.
- Location Factors: Assess whether the location of the equipment, materials, or worker(s) contributed to the incident. Consider if the employee was supposed to be there, whether sufficient workspace was available, and if environmental conditions affected the situation.
- Job Procedures: Evaluate if job procedures contributed to the incident. Consider whether written or known procedures were followed, if the employee was capable of performing the job, if difficult tasks were involved, or if any factors encouraged deviation from procedures, such as incentives or the speed of completion.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Emergency Equipment: Determine if the lack or improper use of PPE or emergency equipment contributed to the incident. Consider whether PPE was specified for the job or task, if it was adequate, used correctly, or not used at all, and if emergency equipment was specified, available, properly used, and functioning as intended.
- Management System Defects: Consider if a management system defect, such as a failure of the supervisor to detect or report hazardous conditions or deviations from job procedures, was a contributing factor. Assess whether supervisor accountability was understood, if the supervisor or worker was adequately trained, and if there was a failure to initiate corrective action.