LICQual Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety Investigations

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

Unit 1: Introduction to Occupational Health and Safety Investigations

1. Define the key concepts, principles, and objectives of occupational health and safety investigations.
2. Demonstrate understanding of the global and national regulatory frameworks (e.g., ILO, OSHA, ISO) and their relevance to OHS investigations.
3. Identify the different stages of an OHS investigation, from initial assessment to final reporting.
4. Discuss the ethical and legal responsibilities of an investigator in ensuring impartiality and confidentiality.
5. Explain the role of OHS investigations in improving workplace safety and compliance with health regulations.

Unit 2: Risk Assessment and Hazard Identification Techniques

1. Identify and classify various types of workplace hazards (e.g., physical, chemical, ergonomic, biological).
2. Apply risk assessment methodologies (qualitative and quantitative) to evaluate workplace risks.
3. Conduct effective hazard identification using observation, inspections, and risk analysis tools.
4. Analyze and prioritize risks in the workplace to determine their potential impact on health and safety.
5. Recommend appropriate control measures for identified hazards based on risk assessment findings.

Unit 3: Investigating Workplace Accidents and Incidents

1. Recognize the root causes of workplace accidents and incidents through systematic investigation techniques.
2. Apply accident investigation methods, including root cause analysis, fault tree analysis, and the fishbone diagram approach.
3. Demonstrate the ability to gather and preserve evidence according to established investigation protocols.
4. Interview witnesses, injured parties, and other involved individuals effectively to gather relevant information.
5. Formulate comprehensive investigative findings and recommendations to prevent future incidents.

Unit 4: Data Analysis and Reporting in OHS Investigations

1. Analyze data collected from workplace accidents, incidents, and safety audits to identify trends and patterns.
2. Utilize both qualitative and quantitative analysis methods to interpret investigation data.
3. Prepare clear, concise, and actionable reports that summarize investigation findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
4. Understand the significance of reporting findings to stakeholders, including management, regulatory bodies, and affected parties.
5. Demonstrate the ability to provide evidence-based recommendations to improve workplace safety policies and procedures.

Unit 5: Legal and Ethical Aspects of Occupational Health and Safety Investigations

1. Explain the legal responsibilities of employers and employees in relation to occupational health and safety.
2. Identify relevant legislation (e.g., health and safety acts, workers’ compensation laws) and understand its implications for OHS investigations.
3. Understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality and adhering to ethical standards during the investigation process.
4. Examine the ethical dilemmas that may arise during an OHS investigation and propose solutions to maintain integrity and impartiality.
5. Demonstrate knowledge of how OHS regulations and laws influence the investigation’s scope, actions, and outcomes.

Unit 6: Communication and Stakeholder Management in OHS Investigations

1. Develop communication strategies for presenting investigation findings to different stakeholders, such as employees, management, and regulatory bodies.
2. Create reports and presentations that are clear, concise, and actionable for diverse audiences.
3. Demonstrate the ability to manage stakeholder expectations and facilitate effective communication throughout the investigation process.
4. Discuss the importance of fostering a culture of safety within the organization through effective communication of safety issues.
5. Advise management on safety improvements and corrective actions based on investigation findings and stakeholder feedback.