Blog:
Get accident investigations right and minimise the potential costs
Our new head of health and safety, Steve Giblin has over 30 years of experience globally in health, safety, and security roles and has successfully investigated, challenged, and defended several fatal cases and serious incidents, working with some of the country’s top barristers, lawyers, and insurers. We asked Steve the million pound question, “What is the best way to handle an accident investigation?” And here’s what he said:
“I know it’s a cliché, but we have to start at the beginning, and when I say at the beginning, I’ve been to serious accident investigations where managers have either ran away or turned a blind eye to preserving evidence and protecting the scene.
Or maybe they were just oblivious to the importance of what was to come after a serious event. Or I suspect mentally effected by what they have seen and probably not thinking straight, no-one wants to see anyone seriously injured or worse at work.
Now firstly, expect the Police to take primacy at any workplace fatality, they will secure the scene and usually bring in SOCO (Scene Of Crime Officers) who will take pictures and most likely interview any eyewitnesses. This is where employees usually start to panic, as they are being interviewed by the Police for a workplace accident and fear they may be sent to jail. The reality is the Police are only doing their job, however the trauma on individuals involved should not be underestimated.
Obviously, this doesn’t stop the business from also taking initial statements and photos of the scene. There should be one designated person to lead such a situation and liaise with the Police to carry out an investigation on behalf of the company involved. I’ve investigated accidents where the reserve for fines has been in excess of £30m, so don’t underestimate how much this can cost a business if you get it wrong.
Now let’s bring that into reality – not everyone is comfortable doing this, especially after seeing or being told how a work colleague came to their demise or was seriously injured whilst carrying out their duties in the workplace.
But getting the ball rolling as quickly as possible after ensuring the scene is now safe and secure should be a business priority because:
1. Your insurance company will want to know
2. Your shareholders will want to know
3. The HSE (or enforcing authority) will want to know
4. The family will be needing answers
5. HR will want to be informed
6. Their union or work colleagues will want information
The list goes on.”
If you need help with accident investigation coaching, training, or would like us to take on the role of the accident investigator, to help minimise the cost and risk to your organisation, then please do get in touch on 0330 223 2965 or email cr@collinsmchugh.co.uk