In the workplace, how we talk about safety matters. The term “accident” implies something random and unavoidable, but when it comes to most injuries or close calls on the job, that’s rarely the case. This is why OSHA promotes the term “incident” instead.
Why Incident Investigations Matter
- Looks beyond human error: if someone didn’t follow a procedure, ask why?
- Fixes the root cause, not just the symptoms
- Promotes a safety-first culture
Teamwork Makes it Stronger
While a supervisor often leads the incident investigation, the best results come from a team approach that includes both manager and workers. Everyone brings unique knowledge to the table, whether it’s about the job itself, the tools involved, or the policies in place.
To read more about Incident Investigations, visit this website: Incident Investigation - Overview | Occupational Safety and Health Administration
