Incident / Accident Investigation

What is Incident Investigation?

Incident investigation is a tool for identifying hazards in the workplace and exploring ways to control them. Investigations are carried out after incidents or near misses occur.

Who needs Incident Investigation Training?

The information provided by this course is intended to be a general guide for employers, supervisors, managers, health and safety committee members, or members of an incident investigation team. Keep in mind though, that worker participation is also essential to the success of incident investigation and prevention, therefore employees looking to improve their CVs prior to an interview can also acquire and complete this training program independently.

Who is responsible for training?

The employer ultimately is responsible for the effectiveness of incident investigations, including what corrective action to take to address the Safety Committee incident report recommendations. For effective incident investigations, the employer may integrate them into the organization’s health and safety system (e.g., emergency planning) and provide the investigation team with appropriate training and resources.

Health and safety committee members are obvious choices of personnel to carry out formal inspections, especially if they have received training or certification, but depending on the circumstances, persons with expertise may be called upon to be involved or actually conduct the investigation. The determining factor for involving an expert relates to the severity and complexity of the incident. For example, in the case of a fire, outside experts in fire investigation will be utilized. If the investigator is not familiar with machinery involved in an incident, he or she should consult someone who has experience and skill in a particular situation.

However, OHSA warns that no one should investigate incidents or near misses without first receiving appropriate training in incident investigation.

Some jurisdictions provide guidance such as requiring that the incident must be conducted jointly, with both management and labour represented, or that the investigators must be knowledgeable about the work processes involved.

What do you need to learn?

To obtain a certificate in Incident Investigation, you must become familiar with the CSA Standard Z1005-17 requirements outlined in this course, you must be aware of all incident investigation steps and prevention principles and requirements, in order to determine incident root cause(s) and make effective recommendations to prevent similar occurrences from ever happening again.

How long is the certificate valid?

This certificate is valid for 3 years from the date of completion printed on the certificate unless otherwise specified by an employer, legislation, or other authority. However, it is recommended for incident investigation team members to re-take this course on a yearly basis.

What other courses should I take?

Those who acquire Incident Investigation Course should also consider courses in Hazard Awareness, Workplace Mental Health Awareness, and Workplace Violence & Harassment.

For course recommendations that are tailored to your line of work, please access our consultation page and select a specific job. The packages described there include safety training programs designed to prepare you for all hazards associated with your work environment.