Kate McGinn

TV SHOWS SUCH AS “CSI” illustrate how intriguing investigations can be. Waste firms likely will not find themselves delving into the high-drama crime scenes depicted on television, but they may find themselves conducting investigations into what went — or almost went — wrong at the workplace.

Accidents — and even near-accidents — are signals that something is amiss. All work-related mishaps should be investigated in a timely manner. While a near-miss may not have resulted in a major injury or significant property damage, investigating such instances can help avoid serious accidents in the future.

After all, the primary goal of an accident investigation program is to use the knowledge gained to prevent similar accidents in the future. Additionally, investigations often are required by federal and state law and may be required by your insurance carrier. Proper investigative reports can be critical in determining your company's liability.

When something does go awry, it is important that employees, especially those in supervisory positions, know what to do. The company's safety manager should assist in accidents involving fire, death, serious injury or extensive property damage.

The supervisor must begin investigating the circumstances of the accident. The following procedures are effective when conducting investigations:

A thorough investigation may identify previously overlooked physical, environmental or process hazards; the need for new or more extensive safety training; and unsafe work practices. The primary focus of any investigation should be determining the facts and the lessons that can be learned.

Answers to the following questions can provide insight:

Accident investigations are well worth the time and trouble when the collected information is put to use. When the root cause of the incident is determined, the next step is to determine what has to be done to increase safety in the workplace.
— Kate McGinn
XL Specialty Insurance Company, Exton, Pa.
www.xlinsurance.com