Accident investigation data: Users' unrecognized challenges. (October 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Benner, Ludwig
• Is Part Of: Safety science. Volume 118(2019)
• Page Start: 309
• Page End: 315
• Publication Date: 2019-10
• Subjects: Accident data -- Accident investigation -- Accident investigation methods -- Accident theory -- Accident models -- Accident data users -- Accident analysis -- Investigation knowledge base -- Safety analysis; Industrial accidents -- Periodicals; Accident Prevention -- Periodicals; Safety -- Periodicals; Travail -- Accidents -- Périodiques; 363.11
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ssci.2019.05.021
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0925-7535

Abstract

Highlights: Over 30 different methods used to produce accident investigation data. 17 examples of serious differences among data producing methods. Over 150 differing foundational views in investigation knowledge base. A dozen serious challenges the situation poses for users of reported data. 9 suggested responses to this situation. Abstract: The purpose of this study report is to raise awareness among accident investigation data users about the differences in investigation and analysis methods used to produce that data, and the challenges this situation poses for any users. Accident investigation practitioners may utilize any of over 30 methods to produce reported data about an accident. When descriptions of these methods and investigators' work products are compared, each method can be seen to differ from all the others, usually in several ways. Numerous samples of the foundational thinking about what accidents and investigations are, investigation purposes, and why accidents happen, show the diversity in that thinking, and indicate why so many investigation and analysis methods exist today. This report documents an experienced investigation practitioner's observations and analysis of the consequences of using these different methods to produce the data in accident investigation reports, and the challenges that situation poses for accident data users. Responses to the situation are suggested for users, practitioners and academics.