Conducting
an Accident Investigation
Course 102
Safety Certified Supervisor Series
MODULE 3: CONDUCTING INTERVIEWS
Effective Interviewing
Techniques
What
are effective ways to increase cooperation in the accident interview process?
What communication strategies might increase the likelihood of an adversarial
relationship in the interview? As you conduct interviews, gaining experience
along the way, you'll further develop the "art" of interviewing
by improving your ability to apply these techniques.
It's important to remember that
you're conducting an accident investigation, not a criminal investigation.
These two interview processes may be similar, but each has a unique purpose.
Each process requires different techniques to assure they fulfill their intended
results. The last thing you want to do in an accident investigation is to
come down hard (be accusatory) on an interviewee.
So Let's take a look at some effective
techniques that will assure you get to the facts.. .not find fault.
- Keep the purpose of the investigation
in mind: To determine the cause of the accident so that similar accidents
will not recur. Make sure the interviewee understands this.
- Approach the investigation
with an open mind.
It will be obvious if you have preconceptions about the individuals or the
facts.
- Go to the scene. Just
because you are familiar with the location or the victim's job, don't assume
that things are always the same. If you can't conduct a private interview
at the location, find an office or meeting room that the interviewee considers
a "neutral" location.
Interview the people involved (victim, witnesses, people involved with the
process, i.e., forklift driver, mechanic).
- Put the person at ease.
Explain the purpose and your role. Sincerely express concern regarding the
accident and desire to prevent a similar occurrence.
- Express to the individual
that the information given is important. Be friendly, understanding,
and open minded. Be calm and unhurried.
- Direct an eye witness to
"explain what happened." Don't ask them to explain, because
they may respond with a simple "no," and that's that.
- Let the individual talk.
Ask background information, name, job, etc. first. Ask the witness to tell
you what happened; don't ask leading questions; don't interrupt; and don't
make expressions (facial, verbal of approval or disapproval).
- Ask open ended questions
to clarify particular areas or get specifics. Try to avoid yes and no
answer (closed ended) questions. Try to avoid asking "why" as
these type of questions tend to make people respond defensively. Example:
Do not ask: "Why did you drive the forklift with under-inflated tires?
- Rather, ask: What are forklift
inspection procedures? What
are forklift safety hazard reporting procedures?
- Repeat the facts and sequence
of events back to the person to avoid any misunderstandings.
- Notes should be taken
very carefully, and as casually as possible. Let the individual read them
if desired. Give the interviewee a copy of the notes you take.
- Don't use a tape recorder
unless you get permission. Tell the interviewee that the purpose of
the recorder is to insure accuracy. Offer to give the interviewee a copy
of the tape.
- Ask for their suggestions
as to how the accident/incident could have been avoided.
- Conclude the interview with
a statement of appreciation for their contribution. Ask them to contact
you if they think of anything else. If possible, advise these people personally
of the outcome of the investigation before it becomes public knowledge.