What is the purpose of an accident investigation/review?

The purpose of an accident investigation or review is fundamentally rooted in the commitment to safety and continuous improvement within the organization. Conducting fact-finding, rather than fault-finding, is crucial because it focuses on uncovering the underlying causes of an incident without assigning blame to individuals. This approach promotes an environment where employees feel safe to report accidents and near misses, knowing the primary intent is to learn and prevent future occurrences rather than to punish.

By concentrating on the facts surrounding an incident—such as the conditions, behaviors, equipment used, and operational procedures—the investigation can yield valuable insights. This, in turn, allows organizations to implement corrective measures, enhance training programs, and improve safety protocols. Such a preventive approach not only helps in avoiding similar incidents in the future but also fosters a culture of accountability and learning among the workforce.

The emphasis on fact-finding aligns with best practices in occupational safety and health, underscoring the idea that improving safety is a shared responsibility that benefits everyone involved rather than attributing fault to individuals, which can deter open communication and hinder safety improvements.