Human Factors

Human factors play a large role in most accidents. Investigators need to be able to identify the human factors that contribute to an accident. Thorough analysis can result in effective intervention and prevention strategies and recommendations

A. Qualifications and Training.
Determine the qualifications and training of individuals directly involved in the accident (the vehicle operator, passengers, and supervisor). Identify any contributing factors such as the lack of operator certifications or insufficient training.

B. Duties.
Identify the duties of individuals directly involved in the accident, such as primary and additional duties, and work and rest schedules. Note any contributing factors, such as employee fatigue. Conduct a work/rest analysis covering at least 72 hours before the accident. Include an examination of time and attendance records as well as input from
appropriate supervisors on tasks completed and actual time worked (may not necessarily match recorded time), off-duty activities, and sleep duration cycles.

C. Management.
Determine the organization, supervision, and external control of individuals directly involved in the accident. Identify any contributing factors, such as a failure to emphasize safety by the supervisor or organization.

D. Compliance.
Note deviations from policies, procedures, practices, and contract specifications. Review the job hazard analysis (JHA), safety equipment, and other items pertinent to the accident investigation.

E. Documents.
Identify whether directives, operating guides, and contracts were current, readily available, and properly used by individuals associated with the accident. Review records specific to the accident, such as inspections, dispatch and equipment logs, time and attendance records, safety plans, and incident command system forms, if applicable.

F. Communications.
Establish the communications before, during, and after the accident. Identify any contributing factors related to communications, such as radio coverage or faulty equipment.

G. Services.
Determine whether contractual services, such as road guards, traffic signs, or dispatch procedures contributed to the accident.

H. Risk Management.
Determine whether a JHA or other workplace analysis was developed. Establish the role that
the JHA played in the performance of the work project or activity. Determine whether a tailgate safety session was held before work began.

I. Analysis.
Use the human factors accident and incident analysis checklist to determine additional items that may have contributed to the situation (exhibit 2–2).

US Forest Service Accident Investigation Guide (Exhibit 2-2) (pdf)

Read the Entire US Forest Service Accident Investigation Guide

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