Seeing someone injured on the job can be frightening and maybe even leave you feeling confused.
But for better or for worse, you are a witness, and you will play a role in an accident investigation.
Some witnesses may be concerned about what information they should give. They may not want to put a fellow worker at fault or think their own position will be in jeopardy.
It's important to gather your thoughts independent of the conversation around you and regardless of your fears. Consider exactly what you saw and the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Remember that accident investigations are fact-finding missions, not fault-finding ones. The object is to prevent future injuries.
There are two types of witnesses: Those who actually saw or heard what happened, and those who can shed some light on the incident. In either case, it's important to volunteer as a witness right away. If your information isn't taken very soon, important details could be forgotten.
If you are interviewed, give your complete version of what happened. Even small bits of information about circumstances and equipment can fill gaps and lead to a safer workplace.
In such an interview, you would be asked for your opinion on how the accident could have been prevented. Give your opinion freely because you are an important partner in the investigation process.
Inquiries will ultimately lead to a higher level of safety.
If you see an accident, take these steps:
1 Render aid if you can. Call for medical help.
2 Shut down machinery, if necessary. Make the accident scene safe.
3 Don't move things, if you can help it. Don't clean the scene.
4 Note details in your mind of where you were, what you were doing, and the circumstances.
5 Report the incident to a supervisor immediately.
