Module 10

Offshore Accident Investigation

It is a sad fact, but one that we must face up to, accidents happen. In this module we consider the investigation of accidents, how they are followed up, and how we learn from the results.

Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate an understanding of the roles of official investigating bodies
Discuss the requirements of accident investigations
Explain the accident investigation process
Explain the purpose and objectives of accident investigation

Course Content

Definitions
- Accident
- Incident
- Investigation
- Human Injuries
- Ship accidents
The background to offshore incident investigation
- Purpose and overview of the casualty investigation code
- The casualty investigation code – definitions
The casualty investigation code
- The role of investigating flag states
- The role of substantially interested states
- Mandatory standards
- Recommended practices
Cooperation of interested parties
- Co-operation of other parties
- Legal rights of surveyors
- Surveyor as a witness
- Expert witness
Legal rights of witnesses when being interviewed
- Interviewing witnesses
- Casualty Investigation Code
Initial actions and managing the investigation
- Initial actions
- Managing the investigation
Collecting physical evidence
- Examples of evidence gathering
- Personal injury incidents
Analysis of evidence
- Facts not opinions
Analysis of systems
- A system to control vessel speed
- Feedback control paradigm
- Training paradigm
- A system to communicate the defects in CPP control to allow rational decisions
- Conclusions from the use of paradigms
Human factors
- Open-ended questions
- Closed questions
- Inappropriate types of questions
The cognitive interview
- What is the cognitive interview?
- The Cl techniques
Developing conclusions and making recommendations
Systematic nature of incidents
Case studies