IOSH Investigating Incidents 2

Question 1

What are the key steps in an incident investigation process?

Accepted Answer

Secure the scene, gather evidence, interview witnesses, analyse causes, identify root causes, recommend corrective actions, and report findings

Answer

A thorough investigation follows systematic steps: secure and preserve the scene, gather physical evidence (photos, measurements), collect witness statements, review documentation, analyse the sequence of events, identify immediate and root causes, recommend corrective actions, and produce a report.

Question 2

What is 'root cause analysis' (RCA)?

Accepted Answer

A systematic approach to identifying the fundamental, underlying causes that led to an incident

Answer

Root cause analysis is a systematic process of looking beyond the immediate cause to identify the fundamental underlying reasons why an incident occurred. Techniques include the '5 Whys', fault tree analysis, fishbone diagrams, and timeline analysis. The goal is to identify systemic failures.

Question 3

What is the '5 Whys' technique?

Accepted Answer

Repeatedly asking 'why' (typically five times) to drill down from the immediate cause to the root cause

Answer

The '5 Whys' technique involves repeatedly asking 'why' to peel back the layers of cause and effect. Starting with the immediate cause, each answer forms the basis of the next question. Typically, asking 'why' about five times reaches the root cause, though the exact number may vary.

Question 4

What evidence should be gathered during an incident investigation?

Accepted Answer

Physical evidence, photographs, witness statements, CCTV, documents (risk assessments, training records, maintenance logs), and environmental data

Answer

A comprehensive evidence gathering includes: physical evidence (broken parts, substances, measurements), photographs/video, witness statements, CCTV footage, relevant documents (risk assessments, procedures, training records, maintenance logs, shift patterns), and environmental conditions (weather, lighting, noise).

Question 5

What is a 'corrective action' following an incident investigation?

Accepted Answer

A measure implemented to address the root cause and prevent the incident from recurring

Answer

Corrective actions are specific measures implemented to address the root causes identified during the investigation. They should be practical, targeted, assigned to specific individuals, time-bound, and followed up to confirm effectiveness. They focus on systemic improvements, not blame.

IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

IOSH Investigating Incidents 2