Which incidents should undergo a formal investigation?

Formal investigations are essential for serious incidents that result in injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage. Such incidents may reveal underlying safety issues, operational failures, or procedural shortcomings that need to be addressed to prevent future occurrences. Conducting a thorough investigation helps organizations identify root causes, implement corrective actions, and improve safety protocols, ultimately enhancing the overall safety culture within the organization.

Investigating serious incidents is not only a best practice but often a regulatory requirement, as it demonstrates a commitment to safety and accountability. The findings from these investigations can lead to valuable insights that aid in policy development, training improvements, and resource allocation for safety measures.

In contrast, minor injuries, near misses, routine safety checks, and employee feedback sessions, while necessary for comprehensive safety management, do not typically warrant the same level of formal investigation. They may still require attention but often can be managed through observation, reporting, and adjustments rather than a full investigative process.