A Real Success Story: Investigation

Project Overview

Our licensed factual investigator thoroughly examined a significant on-road single heavy vehicle incident, focusing on workplace health and safety, Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) chain of responsibility (CoR), and road transport legal compliance obligations. Despite the incident occurring several months prior, we conducted a site inspection to review road conditions, including signage.

Scope of Work

Scene Visit:

• Despite the time elapsed since the incident, we conducted an on-site visit to review road conditions and signage.

Documentation Review:

• We examined safety management system documentation, including internal incident investigation reports, relevant training and induction records, safe work procedures, HVNL CoR documentation, and other road user obligations.

 Interviews:

• Our experienced investigator conducted documented interviews with relevant parties and key stakeholders.

Factual Reporting:

• We prepared a detailed factual report with evidence-based findings and recommendations to reduce the risk of similar incidents.
• Focusing on providing unbiased, evidence-based conclusions, we presented the client with an investigation overview and a comprehensive factual report.

Challenges Addressed

• Delayed Information Release: Faced delays in obtaining information due to the client's large organisation size. 
• Client Preconceived Opinions: The client stakeholders had preconceived opinions on the desired outcome, which required a diplomatic presentation of the factual evidence supporting our findings to address the client's expectations professionally.

Results Achieved

Our investigation gave the client a clear, evidence-based understanding of the workplace incident. The detailed report and remedial recommendations were aimed at aiding the client in addressing gaps in their safety management system and reducing the risk of future incidents. Despite initial delays and challenges, our diplomatic approach, the client accepted the findings and our recommendations.

Conclusion

This case study highlights our expertise in conducting thorough investigations and compliance reviews, even under challenging circumstances. Legal compliance was critical in this investigation, specifically workplace health and safety legal requirements, HVNL CoR legal obligations, and Queensland's road user laws. Our commitment to providing unbiased, evidence-based findings and practical recommendations makes us a trusted partner for organisations seeking to enhance their safety and compliance standards.

Note: Our licensed factual investigator is also qualified to conduct Incident Cause Analysis Method (ICAM) investigations.