Introduction
Accidents do not “just happen”. They are the result of system failures, unsafe behaviours, and weak controls.
Common Root Causes of Accidents
- Complacency
- Poor supervision
- Inadequate training
- Fatigue and time pressure
- Unsafe shortcuts
- Poor communication
Unsafe Acts vs Unsafe Conditions
- Unsafe acts: Not wearing PPE, bypassing procedures
- Unsafe conditions: Poor lighting, faulty equipment
Most accidents involve both.
Why “Experience” Can Increase Risk
Familiarity often leads to:
- Reduced vigilance
- Overconfidence
- Rule-bending
Preventing Recurrence
- Investigate incidents properly
- Focus on system failures, not blame
- Learn from near misses
Key Takeaway
Fix the cause, not just the injury.
