MODULE 6: EFFECTIVE INCIDENT / ACCIDENT ANALYSIS

Accident Causation Theories

Multiple Causation Theory

This theory argues that for any single accident there may be many contributing surface and root causes. This theory is brings out the fact that rarely, if ever, is an accident the result of a single cause or act. Combinations of these give rise to accidents. According to this theory, the contributing factors may include:

A typical accident, according to this theory, is the result of many related and unrelated factors that somehow all come together at the same time. It is the unintentional harmful outcome of a number of otherwise stable interactive work processes that undergo changes. The process, itself, is a set of simultaneous, interacting, and cross-linked events. OSHA education supports and promotes this approach to accident analysis.

• Environmental factors. Hazardous conditions in the workplace such as improper guarding, defective equipment, tools, equipment and machinery produced through inappropriate use and unsafe procedures.
• Behavioral factors. Factors such as improper attitude, lack of knowledge, lack of skills and inadequate physical and mental condition. These "states of being" also represent hazardous conditions in the workplace. It's important to understand there are underlying causes for these behavioral factors. Management can have great influence over these factors.