The Accident Investigation Team

Depending of the risk classification of incidents, as determined in the accident investigation protocol, the decision may be to use a team approach to carry out the investigation.

It may be of particular interest to use a team to find out what happened and why and develop remedial actions.

Using a team approach helps to:

• convey to all involved the importance of reporting, investigating and analyzing loss producing events
• combine the best possible knowledge about the work involved that lead to the unwanted event
• get the cooperation of all involved for implementation of remedial actions

At the start of the first team meeting an introduction should be held to get "the noses into the same direction". The introduction should cover the company policy, the accident investigation protocol headlines, the reasons for using a team approach, why the team was selected as it was, what is expected of each team member and of course a short introduction of team members. Preferably this introduction should be provided by a sufficiently high management level.

Team members

The accident investigation protocol should provide the basis for selection of team members. Normally this will depend on the type of accident or incident, the complexity, expected involvement of various departments and expertise, the risk classification of the accident or incident.

The supervisor(s) of the department(s) concerned will always be part of the investigation team. Depending on the severity of the accident / incident or the possibility of serious damage or injury, the department head(s), the HSE manager or coordinator, the facilitator, involved employees, contractor and/or client representative(s) and/or others may participate in the investigation and analysis.

The Facilitator

While a general management function, investigation requires special application of techniques and discipline. Preparatory training for investigators is neeessary to orient investigators to the precise nature of the investigation process. Certain attributes of an investigator can enhance an investigation. These are integrity, objectivity, perseverence, curiosity, observation, imagination, humility, tact and intuition. Primary to the investigative process is organization and management. The success of an investigation consequently depends on and therefore is controlled by management. Safety professionals and technical experts have a definite place and perform invaluable service through their discipline and expertise. All these facets, coordinated through preparatory training, produce the professional investigation