Conducting an Accident Investigation
Course 102
Safety Certified Supervisor Series

MODULE 5: DETERMINING SURFACE AND ROOT CAUSES

Introduction

Did you know that most accidents in the workplace result from unsafe work behaviors? According to the latest research, they represent the direct cause for about 95% of all workplace accidents. Hazardous conditions represent the direct cause for only about 3% of workplace accidents. "Acts of God" account for the remaining 2%. All these statistics imply that management system weaknesses account for fully 98% of all workplace accidents. To effectively fulfill our responsibilities as an accident investigator, we must not close the investigation until these root causes have been identified.

It's a common struggle trying to overcome long-held perceptions about safety and how accidents occur. Management perceptions and subsequent actions reflect both traditional and progressive approaches. Let's take a look at old and new thinking.