Effective Industrial Accident Investigation: A Comprehensive Guide" by Dr. Wayne M. Sundborg provides an in-depth exploration of the complex and critical process of industrial accident investigation. This guide offers valuable insights for safety professionals, engineers, and managers who aim to improve workplace safety by systematically analyzing accidents. Drawing from decades of experience in investigating over 210 fatal accidents and high-profile incidents, Dr. Sundborg presents a thorough methodology for uncovering root causes and implementing preventive strategies.
In the opening chapters, the evolution of industrial safety laws is explored, starting from early legislation in Britain to the more advanced safety systems in place today. With a strong foundation in historical context, the book emphasizes the importance of understanding human error and systemic failures, which are often at the heart of workplace accidents.
The book delves into advanced methodologies like Root Cause Analysis, the Swiss Cheese Model, and Systems Thinking, which help uncover both immediate and underlying causes of accidents. Dr. Sundborg highlights the significance of safety culture in organizations and how accident investigations can drive systemic improvements.
Further chapters explore the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and offer practical advice on building and maintaining a skilled investigation team. Dr. Sundborg's insights are particularly useful in preventing future incidents by understanding the multi-layered factors involved in accidents-human, organizational, and technical.
This guide provides practical techniques for conducting investigations, handling evidence, conducting interviews, and performing post-incident analysis. Dr. Sundborg underscores the role of technology and data analytics in modern investigations and predicts the role of AI in future safety practices.
The book also explores the legal, regulatory, and ethical aspects of industrial accident investigations, helping companies navigate complex legal landscapes while ensuring the safety of their employees. With numerous real-life case studies, the book is an indispensable resource for anyone involved in accident investigations and safety management
