RIDDOR Accident Reporting Flashcards

Which RIDDOR category applies when a worker is incapacitated for exactly 7 days after an accident?

Answer: It does NOT meet the over-seven-day threshold — the worker must be incapacitated for MORE than seven consecutive days

The over-seven-day incapacitation category applies only when a worker is unable to perform their normal work for MORE than seven consecutive days after the accident (not including the day of the accident). Exactly seven days does not trigger the reporting requirement.

What is the RIDDOR reporting deadline for a fatal injury?

Answer: As soon as practicable — immediately by telephone

Fatal injuries and specified injuries must be reported to the HSE as soon as practicable — typically immediately by telephone (0345 300 9923). A written follow-up report must then be submitted within 10 days.

Does RIDDOR apply to self-employed persons working on a construction site?

Answer: Yes — self-employed persons must report their own specified injuries and dangerous occurrences to the HSE

RIDDOR applies to self-employed persons. They have a duty to report their own specified injuries, certain diseases and dangerous occurrences. The Principal Contractor also has a duty to report dangerous occurrences that occur on the construction site.

Under RIDDOR, what must a supervisor do if they witness a dangerous occurrence such as a scaffold collapse?

Answer: Report it to management immediately so a RIDDOR report can be made to the HSE, and preserve the scene for investigation

A dangerous occurrence must be reported to the HSE even if no one was injured. The supervisor must notify management immediately, preserve the scene to facilitate investigation, and ensure the RIDDOR report is submitted.

What is the purpose of keeping an accident book on a construction site?

Answer: To record all injuries at work, including those below the RIDDOR threshold, so there is a comprehensive record for management review and legal protection

An accident book records all injuries that occur at work, including minor injuries below the RIDDOR threshold. This creates a comprehensive record for identifying trends, managing occupational health, and providing evidence if an injury later proves more serious or legal action follows.

What is the significance of preserving the scene after a serious accident on a construction site?

Answer: Preserving the scene allows investigators (internal and HSE) to gather physical evidence about the cause of the accident before it is disturbed

Preserving the accident scene allows investigators to examine physical conditions (positions of equipment, state of ground conditions, location of defects) before they are altered. Disturbing the scene can destroy vital evidence. The HSE may attend serious incidents and will require the scene to be preserved.