Who is responsible for investigating accidents causing loss of life or a worker seeking medical aid?

• A. Any manager on duty
• B. Persons knowledgeable in the type of work involved
• C. External safety consultants
• D. OSHA representatives

Answer: (B)

The responsibility for investigating accidents that result in loss of life or require a worker to seek medical aid is most appropriately placed with individuals who are knowledgeable in the specific type of work involved. These individuals possess the necessary expertise and understanding of the equipment, processes, and potential hazards associated with the tasks being performed. Their familiarity with the operational environment allows them to assess the situation accurately, identify contributing factors, and recommend relevant corrective measures to prevent future occurrences.

In contrast, while any manager on duty may have oversight responsibilities, they may not possess the specialized knowledge required to effectively analyze the nuances of the incident. Similarly, external safety consultants and OSHA representatives, while valuable resources, may not have the immediate context or detailed understanding of the specific work environment and practices that those intimately familiar with the job would have. This specificity in knowledge is vital for a thorough and effective investigation that leads to actionable outcomes.