A good investigation turns an incident into prevention. Here is a simple process for contractors.
In this article
Why investigate
Every incident and serious near miss shows a weakness in planning, equipment, training or supervision. Investigating finds that weakness before it hurts someone else. Companies that investigate well have fewer repeat incidents.
Secure the scene
Care for the injured, make the area safe and preserve evidence when possible.
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Facts, not blame
People hide information when they fear punishment. Make it clear the goal is prevention.
Interviews
Talk to the people involved and witnesses separately and soon, while memories are fresh.
Photos and documents
Photograph the scene and collect relevant plans, permits and training records.
Root causes
Ask "why" several times. "He fell" leads to "the guardrail was removed" and then "no one was assigned to replace it."
Corrective actions
Specific actions with owners and deadlines. Not just "be careful."
Documentation
Write a short report with facts, causes and actions. Keep records for compliance.
Share lessons
Discuss the lessons in toolbox talks across all jobs.
Follow up
Confirm actions were completed and worked.
An example
A worker was cut by a grinder without a guard. The investigation found guards were removed for a tight cut and no alternative tool was available. The company bought the right tool, retrained crews and added guard checks to the daily walk.
Where to start
Create a one-page investigation form and train foremen to use it for near misses as well as injuries.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the purpose of an incident investigation?
To understand what happened and why, identify root causes and put corrective actions in place so it doesn't happen again, not to assign blame.