Post-Incident Procedure

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]

Revision Date: [DATE]

Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]

Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This safe work procedure outlines the steps to be taken following a workplace incident to ensure the safety of all personnel, to prevent recurrence of similar incidents, and to comply with regulatory requirements. It applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors at the worksite. This procedure covers incidents ranging from near misses to serious injuries and property damage.

2. Definitions

Incident An unplanned event that results in, or has the potential to result in, injury, illness, or damage to property, equipment, or the environment. Near Miss An event that did not cause injury or damage, but had the potential to do so. Risk Assessment The process of identifying potential hazards and evaluating the likelihood and severity of harm.

3. Responsibilities

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Immediate hazards at the incident scene (e.g., chemical spills, unstable structures).	Further injury or exposure to hazards.	Ensure scene safety by removing hazards or isolating the area. Use appropriate PPE. Provide immediate first aid and medical attention.
Unsecured incident scene.	Further injury to personnel or damage to equipment.	Isolate the area. Use signage and barriers to prevent unauthorized access. Ensure proper ventilation if fumes or gases are present.
Psychological trauma to those involved or witnessing the incident.	Mental health issues, reduced productivity.	Provide counseling services and support. Encourage open communication and address any emotional distress.
Failure to identify and correct the root cause of the incident.	Recurrence of similar incidents.	Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the root cause. Implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence. Review and update safety procedures as necessary.
Damaged equipment.	Equipment malfunction, further injury.	Ensure all equipment is properly inspected and maintained. Remove damaged equipment from service until repaired.
Inadequate training.	Improper use of equipment, unsafe practices.	Review and reinforce training on relevant safety procedures. Provide refresher training as needed.
Environmental contamination.	Environmental damage, fines, and penalties.	Ensure proper disposal of hazardous materials. Follow environmental regulations.
Lack of communication.	Failure to learn from past incidents.	Communicate lessons learned from the incident to all personnel. Share best practices and safety alerts.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Hard Hat: To protect head from falling objects or impact.
Safety Glasses/Face Shield: To protect eyes from dust, debris, or chemical splashes.
Gloves: To protect hands from cuts, abrasions, or chemical exposure.
Safety Boots: To protect feet from punctures, impacts, or chemical exposure.
Respirator (if required): To protect from exposure to airborne contaminants.

6. Equipment and Tools

Barricade Tape: For securing the incident scene.
Camera/Phone: For documenting the incident scene.
First Aid Kit: For providing first aid.
Spill Kit: For cleaning up spills.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

1. Ensure Scene Safety: Immediately after an incident, the priority is to ensure the safety of all personnel involved. Assess the scene for any immediate hazards such as chemical spills, unstable structures, or ongoing equipment operation. Remove injured personnel from the hazard area if it is safe to do so.
2. Provide First Aid and Medical Attention: Provide immediate first aid to any injured personnel. If necessary, call for medical assistance (e.g., ambulance) and follow established emergency response procedures. Do not move seriously injured individuals unless there is an immediate, life-threatening hazard.
3. Secure the Incident Scene: Secure the incident scene to prevent further incidents or unauthorized access. Use barricade tape, cones, or other barriers to isolate the area. Post warning signs to alert others to the hazard.
4. Report the Incident: Report the incident to the supervisor or designated authority immediately. Provide a brief description of what happened, the location of the incident, and any injuries or damages. Follow the organization's incident reporting procedures.
5. Document the Incident Scene: Document the incident scene as soon as possible after it is secured. Take photographs or videos of the area, any equipment involved, and any injuries or damages. Collect any relevant information, such as witness statements or equipment maintenance records.
6. Investigate the Incident: Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the root cause of the incident. Gather information from all relevant sources, including witnesses, involved personnel, and documentation. Analyze the sequence of events and identify any contributing factors.
7. Implement Corrective Actions: Based on the findings of the investigation, develop and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence of similar incidents. These actions may include changes to procedures, equipment, training, or work practices. Assign responsibility for implementing the corrective actions and set deadlines for completion.
8. Review and Update Safety Procedures: Review and update safety procedures, training programs, and risk assessments as necessary based on the incident investigation and corrective actions. Communicate any changes to all personnel and provide additional training as needed.
9. Follow Up and Monitor: Follow up to ensure that corrective actions have been implemented and are effective in preventing recurrence. Monitor the workplace for any signs of similar hazards or unsafe practices. Continuously improve safety performance based on lessons learned from incidents.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

All personnel must be trained on this post-incident procedure and understand their roles and responsibilities.
Ensure all incidents, including near misses, are reported and investigated promptly.
Maintain open communication and encourage personnel to report safety concerns without fear of reprisal.
Regularly review and update this procedure to reflect changes in work practices, equipment, or regulations.
Promote a culture of safety where incident prevention is a priority.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In any emergency, the primary concern is the safety of all personnel. Evacuate the area if necessary and follow established emergency response plans. Administer first aid and call for medical assistance as needed.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Chemical Spill: Evacuate the area immediately. Contact emergency services and report the spill. Follow established spill control procedures.
Fire: Shut down equipment and isolate the power source. Use a fire extinguisher to put out the fire if it is small and contained. Evacuate the area and contact emergency services if the fire is large or spreading.
Serious Injury: Provide immediate first aid and call for medical assistance. Do not move the injured person unless there is an immediate, life-threatening hazard.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

Emergency Contact: [Insert Contact Name and Number]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, including near misses, must be reported to the supervisor or designated authority immediately. The report should include a description of what happened, the location of the incident, the time of the incident, and any injuries or damages. Use the organization's incident reporting form or system.

A thorough investigation should be conducted to determine the root cause of the incident. The investigation should involve gathering information from all relevant sources, including witnesses, involved personnel, and documentation. The investigation should analyze the sequence of events and identify any contributing factors. The findings of the investigation should be documented in an incident investigation report.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]