Every workplace wants to minimise accidents, but sometimes, unplanned events—accidents—can happen. As notorious as accidents can be in most workplaces, it is important to support accident reporting. Once an accident is reported, the next step is for the concerned parties to investigate it.
When a worker is injured at work, that worker should report such an accident to the proper line of communication. Reporting an accident has to be done as soon as possible. In most workplaces, there are processes and reporting systems for accidents. Â
Do you know how to report an accident in your workplace?
All workers must familiarise themselves with the company’s procedures for reporting an accident. Suppose a worker is unaware of the accident reporting procedure. In that case, the goal of accident investigation will be defeated because reporting an accident is the first step in investigating an accident.
Why run an Accident Reporting Toolbox Talk?
Accident reporting toolbox talk ensures that everyone in the workplace knows accident reporting procedures, accident investigation and learns the importance of reporting all accidents. This, in turn, will lead to Fewer injuries and increased productivity.
What is an accident?
An accident is an unplanned or uncontrolled event that results in harm. It is often caused by unsafe acts, unsafe conditions, failure to follow instructions, or a combination of all three.
Why do you have to report an accident?
When accidents are reported, they always answer the questions of what, where, when, who, and how an accident happened. Reporting all workplace accidents is crucial because a minor accident can repeat itself and worsen, leading to a significant accident if not adequately investigated. Failure to report can also lead to other workers being exposed to the risk of a similar accident.
Investigation follows accident reporting. Without reporting, the purpose of accident investigation is defeated. Identifying the root causes of accidents helps prevent recurrence.
Importance of accident reporting.
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One of the key reasons for reporting an accident is to kickstart the investigation. Investigating an accident helps to prevent its occurrence and protect the workers against harm in the workplace. If you can put a preventive action in place for an accident, the risk of a similar accident happening again is reduced to the barest minimum. Investigating accidents also allows companies to identify potential hazards at the workplace.
Conclusion on the accident reporting toolbox talk.
No matter how small an accident may be, everyone on the project must report it. Ensure that you’re familiar with the company’s accident reporting procedure. Accidents can often be prevented by reporting and investigating their causes. The main objective of reporting is to kickstart an investigative process, learn from the accident and prevent it from happening again.
Onyeka Emma is a QHSE Professional with more than 10 years of experience in occupational health and safety, which spans many industries such as construction, beverage, oil and gas, etc. He has many health and safety certifications, including NEBOSH IGC, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018 Lead auditor certificate. A member of IOSH, ISPON, and Nigeria Red Cross Society. He is interested in business, entrepreneurship, Speaking, and motivating people to do better for themselves. He enjoys leisure with a good motivational book.
