Conducting an Accident Investigation
Course 102
Safety Certified Supervisor Series

MODULE 2: DOCUMENTING THE ACCIDENT SCENE

Methods to document the accident scene (continued)

Sketch the accident scene. (continued)

Some sketching pointers:

• Makes sketches clear. Include information pertinent to the investigation.
• Include measurements. Establish precise fixed identifiable reference points.
• Print legibly. All printing should be on the same plane.
• Indicate directions, i.e., N,E,S,W.
• Always tie measurements to a permanent point, e.g.. telephone pole, building.
• Mark where people were standing.
• Use sketches when interviewing people.
• Show where photos were taken.
• Upgrade the quality of the sketch. Turn it into a precise diagram.

The sketch below illustrates the Triangulation Method which makes it possible to later pinpoint the exact location of an object. In this accident, the victim contacted a high voltage line with a metal tree trimming pole. The position of the victim's head is measured from three points. Notice the small circles with horizontal lines through them. These circles indicate where photos were taken. Also, North is indicated and all major objects are identified.

Here's another sketch that helps to illustrate one of the major advantages of sketching. It shows motion through time. In this sketch you can see how the bulldozer rolled down the side of a hill.