Incident investigations. Dont look back in anger

There is a high degree of certainty that the Gallagher brothers weren’t singing about workplace safety investigations with their 90’s anthem “Don’t look back in anger” - But the sentiment is still very much applicable.

All investigations are not created equal, and a good safety investigation is very different from other types of workplace investigations. Perhaps the most common trap investigators and workplaces in general fall into when an incident occurs is to narrow the focus to answering ‘who’s fault is it?’.

Too often, safety incidents are approached with a “who’s responsible?” mindset rather than asking, “what can we learn from this?”. When the focus is on assigning blame, growth is stifled, critical insights missed, and an atmosphere of defensiveness is created.

🔍Signs your investigation is looking for blame (e.g. criminal, industrial relations etc.)

- Identifies facts to substantiate evidence for prosecution

- Requires interviews and interrogation

- Persons of interest are obliged to answer questions

- Evidence is built to establish offending

- Forensic examination of equipment, crime scene etc. to establish evidence to support a prosecution.

🎓Signs your investigation is looking for learning (e.g. business resilience and growth)

- Systematic examination of factors leading to an incident, system failures or weaknesses

- Focus on what failed in a system, how it failed and why

- No obligation for involved persons to answer questions

- Focus on learning rather than prosecution

When employees feel safe discussing mistakes without fear of blame, they’re more likely to speak up, share insights, and contribute to real change. Every incident is an opportunity for growth, just like every mistake is a learning opportunity. By investigating with empathy, curiosity, and a commitment to learning, a business builds a culture of trust.

So next time an incident occurs, “Don’t look back in anger.” Instead, look back to learn, adapt, and build a stronger business.

Reach to learn how ⚡Virtus Advisory⚡ can get you started today.