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An OSHA accident (or incident) investigation is a systematic, four-step process—securing the scene, collecting data, analyzing causes, and implementing corrective actions—designed to determine why a workplace incident (injury, fatality, or near-miss) occurred. It focuses on preventing future occurrences rather than assigning blame.
Key Aspects of OSHA Investigations: Goal: To identify root causes, improve safety programs, and prevent similar incidents. Triggers: Investigations are initiated by fatalities, hospitalizations, amputations, loss of an eye, or employee complaints. Process: The process involves securing the scene, interviewing witnesses, reviewing records, and developing a timeline of events. Requirement: Employers are encouraged to investigate all near misses, not just accidents that resulted in injury. Outcome: The investigation helps identify hazardous conditions, broken equipment, or training gaps.
It is important to note that OSHA emphasizes using the term "incident" to highlight that workplace events are often preventable.
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