copyright progressive business publications 1 after an accident: the first 24 hours
TRANSCRIPT
Copyright Progressive Business Publications1
After an Accident:The First 24 Hours
Copyright Progressive Business Publications2
Save Evidence or Toss It Out?
Cable snapped
Load smashedworker’s foot
Cable tossed out
Company pays
Copyright Progressive Business Publications3
Clarifying Terms
Accident
Incident
Near-miss
Copyright Progressive Business Publications4
Are There Really ‘Accidents’?
Dictionary: Uncontrolled event
Workplace accidents can be controlled
Workplace accidents can be prevented
You play a key role
Copyright Progressive Business Publications5
Other Reasons to Investigate
Fulfill legal requirements
Determine the cost
Determine compliance with safety reg
Process workers’ comp claims
Copyright Progressive Business Publications6
The First 24 Hours Are Key
Secure the scene
Provide medical aid
Call 911
ID witnesses
Safeguard evidence
Take photos
Take notes
Copyright Progressive Business Publications7
Putting the Pieces Together
It’s a jigsaw puzzle
How many pieces are there?
Where can I find them?
Task, material, environment,management and personnel
Copyright Progressive Business Publications8
Key Questions: Task
Safety rules?
Work conditions?
Tools and material?
Safety devices?
Lockout/tagout
Copyright Progressive Business Publications9
Key Questions: Material
Equipment
– Did it fail?– Why?– Was it designed properly?
Hazardous substances
Personal Protective Equipment
Copyright Progressive Business Publications10
Key Questions: Environment
Weather?
Housekeeping?
Other factors?
Copyright Progressive Business Publications11
Key Questions: Personnel
Level of experience?
Training?
Health?
Under stress?
Copyright Progressive Business Publications12
Key Questions: Management
Safety rules?
Safety enforcement?
Hazard identification?
Inspections?
Maintenance?
Copyright Progressive Business Publications13
Interviewing Witnesses: Some Dos
Do:Put them at ease
Let them talk
Listen
Confirm
Take notes/record
Copyright Progressive Business Publications14
Interviewing Witnesses: Some Don’ts
Don’t: Intimidate
Interrupt
Ask leading questions
Show emotions
Take sides
Jump to conclusions
Copyright Progressive Business Publications15
Summary
Preserve evidence
Take photos and notes
Interview the right people
Ask the right questions
Task, material, environmentpersonnel, management