Page 3 of 4 9. COMMON CAUSES OF ACCIDENTS Immediate Cause Underlying Cause Premises Access / egress, housekeeping, layout, floor conditions, obstructions, lighting. Design, suitability of workplace, repair / maintenance, cleaning. Plant and Substances Condition of tools, hazardous substances, ventilation. Design, selection, commissioning, maintenance, personal protective equipment, storage and use of hazardous substances, risk assessment, COSHH assessment. Procedures Safe systems of work, instructions issued – clarity and adequacy, supervision, safe movement of materials and substances, personal protective equipment – selection and use. Planning, risk assessment, preparation of safe systems of work, information and instructions – preparation and communication, emergency procedures, supervision, contractors – competence and selection, monitoring arrangements. People Competence, training, health, under influence of alcohol / drugs – prescribed / non-prescribed. Induction or refresher training, cover for absence, safety culture. 10. ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION PROCEDURE 10.1 Accidents need to be investigated and reported promptly, so that facts can be established before memories fade. Dealing with accidents should be given a high priority. Accident reports should be completed and returned within 5 days. 10.2 The following matrix indicates at what level and by whom accidents need to be investigated. Type of accident / near miss Investigation Level Line manager Line manager / Executive Director Executive Director / Chief Executive Chief Executive / Board Minor injuries or near miss 1 Serious injuries, near miss, lost time accidents. 2 Classified dangerous occurrences, major injuries and diseases. 3 Multiple serious injuries, fatalities or when prosecution is likely 4