What is the main purpose of an accident investigation in the workplace?

The main purpose of an accident investigation in the workplace is to determine the cause and prevent future incidents. By identifying the root causes of an accident, organizations can implement corrective measures to mitigate risks, enhance safety protocols, and improve overall workplace safety culture. This proactive approach not only aims to protect employees from potential harm but also fosters a safer working environment in the long run.

While documenting employee performance, assigning blame, or complying with state regulations may be related aspects of workplace safety management, they are not the primary focus of accident investigations. The intent is to learn from the incident and prevent recurrence rather than to penalize individuals or meet legal obligations alone. Ultimately, the lessons learned from these investigations contribute to ongoing training and improvement in safety practices.