Accident Detectives: Medical Issues in Occupational Incident Investigations

TRACK: Environmental Health and Risk Management

Mitchell A. Garber, MD, MPH, MSME, Engineering Systems, Inc., Norcross, GA

When an incident occurs in the workplace, it is critical to investigate and analyze the possible causes and contributing factors so that appropriate measures can be implemented to prevent similar incidents and improve safety. Investigators must often evaluate factors such as impairment or incapacitation, survivability, injury causation, physical control, sensory ability, and medical certification. Unfortunately, the individuals and organizations conducting the investigation sometimes lack the experience and training required to fully understand all of the relevant medical issues. In addition to other evidence gathered during an investigation, medical personnel should actively advocate for the collection of medical data, both at the time of the incident and from pre-existing records. These data may include photographs, voice or video recordings, toxicology testing, interviews, medical records and/or autopsy reports. Analysis of this information can be critical to fully understanding the role that medical issues may have played in an occupational incident. Using real-world examples, the presenter will outline many of the medical tools, resources, and evaluations that can yield important insights during an investigation.