Investigation of all incidents is an important management tool for controlling accidents and their related costs. If something is not learned from an accident, it is a total loss. The reasons or basic root causes must be determined. The information that is learned can be used to improve the operation involved and make it more safe and efficient. It is the policy of the Industrial Commission that the Accident Investigation Team investigate all injuries requiring a visit to a physician, clinic or hospital and any property damage incidents or near misses that had the potential to result in an accident of like severity. Even if first aid is not administered, all incidents, including near-misses should be reviewed using investigative techniques so that corrective action(s) may be implemented to prevent a similar incident from occurring. 

The importance and purpose of Accident Investigations can be summarized in one word: PREVENTION.

The Accident Investigation Team work hard to track investigations and prevent any and all incidents from reoccurring. This is why it is imperative that you record any and all near misses, incidents and accidents. 

Under your OSHA rights you have the right to know about near misses, incidents and accidents that have been reported.