Accident investigations help determine how and why accidents occurred. By using
the information gained through an investigation, a similar or perhaps more
disastrous accident may be prevented. Accident investigations should be
conducted with accident prevention in mind and not to place blame. The actual
procedures used in a specific investigation will depend on the nature and
outcome of the accident. The agency having jurisdiction for the location should
determine the administrative procedures. In general, responsible officials will
appoint an individual to be in charge of the investigation. The investigator
should define the scope of the investigation and select the investigation team,
assigning specific responsibilities for each person on the team. The
investigating team should:
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Develop a preliminary briefing that includes a description of the accident,
with damage estimates; normal operating procedures; maps (local and general);
location of the accident site; a list of witnesses; and events that preceded
the accident.
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Visit the accident site to get updated information.
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Inspect the accident site.
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Have the area secured. The scene should not be disturbed unless a hazard
exists.
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Prepare the necessary sketches and photographs, labeling each carefully and
keeping accurate records.
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Interview each victim and witness. Also interview those who were present before
the accident and those who arrived at the site shortly after the accident.
Accurate records of each interview should be kept - a tape recorder can be
used, if desired and approved.
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Determine what was not normal before the accident, where the abnormality
occurred, when it was first noted, and how it occurred.
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Analyze the data obtained in step 7.
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Repeat any of the prior steps, if necessary.
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Determine why the accident occurred, a likely sequence of events and probable
causes (direct, indirect, basic), and alternative sequences.
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Check each sequence against the data from step 7.
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Determine the most likely sequence of events and the most probable cause(s).
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Conduct a post-investigation briefing.
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Prepare a summary report, including the recommended actions to prevent a
recurrence.
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Distribute the report according to applicable instructions.
An investigation is not complete until all data is analyzed and a final report
is completed. In practice, the investigative work, data analysis and report
preparation will proceed simultaneously during the investigation.
COPYRIGHT ©2002, ISO Services Properties, Inc.
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