Copyright Progressive Business Publications 1 After an Accident: The First 24 Hours
Copyright Progressive Business Publications 2 Save Evidence or Toss It Out? Cable snapped Load smashed worker’s foot Cable tossed out Company pays
Copyright Progressive Business Publications 3 Clarifying Terms Accident Incident Near-miss
Copyright Progressive Business Publications 4 Are There Really ‘Accidents’? Dictionary: Uncontrolled event Workplace accidents can be controlled Workplace accidents can be prevented You play a key role
Copyright Progressive Business Publications 5 Other Reasons to Investigate Fulfill legal requirements Determine the cost Determine compliance with safety reg Process workers’ comp claims
Copyright Progressive Business Publications 6 The First 24 Hours Are Key Secure the scene Provide medical aid Call 911 ID witnesses Safeguard evidence Take photos Take notes
Copyright Progressive Business Publications 7 Putting the Pieces Together It’s a jigsaw puzzle How many pieces are there? Where can I find them? Task, material, environment, management and personnel
Copyright Progressive Business Publications 8 Key Questions: Task Safety rules? Work conditions? Tools and material? Safety devices? Lockout/tagout
Copyright Progressive Business Publications 9 Key Questions: Material Equipment –Did it fail? –Why? –Was it designed properly? Hazardous substances Personal Protective Equipment
Copyright Progressive Business Publications 10 Key Questions: Environment Weather? Housekeeping? Other factors?
Copyright Progressive Business Publications 11 Key Questions: Personnel Level of experience? Training? Health? Under stress?
Copyright Progressive Business Publications 12 Key Questions: Management Safety rules? Safety enforcement? Hazard identification? Inspections? Maintenance?
Copyright Progressive Business Publications 13 Interviewing Witnesses: Some Dos Do: Put them at ease Let them talk Listen Confirm Take notes/record
Copyright Progressive Business Publications 14 Interviewing Witnesses: Some Don’ts Don’t: Intimidate Interrupt Ask leading questions Show emotions Take sides Jump to conclusions
Copyright Progressive Business Publications 15 Summary Preserve evidence Take photos and notes Interview the right people Ask the right questions Task, material, environment personnel, management