Safety Trained Supervisor in Construction (STSC) Practice Exam

What is the primary goal of safety professionals when performing accident investigations?

1. To assign blame

2. To determine causal conditions

3. To meet legal requirements

4. To conduct safety training

The correct answer is: To determine causal conditions

The primary goal of safety professionals when performing accident investigations is to determine causal conditions. This involves identifying the underlying factors and circumstances that led to the accident. By thoroughly investigating and analyzing the events that occurred, safety professionals can uncover root causes and contributing factors, which are essential for understanding why an incident happened. This process is critical for developing strategies and implementing preventive measures to avoid similar accidents in the future. It focuses on learning and improving safety practices rather than merely establishing fault. By concentrating on causal conditions, safety professionals aim to enhance workplace safety, promote a culture of safety, and ultimately protect workers from harm. Understanding these causal conditions creates opportunities for organizational learning and can lead to significant improvements in safety management systems, policies, and training programs.