G7- Accident Causation

Question 1

A study of factors and sequences leading to accidents

Answer 1

Accident Causation

Question 2

Helps in understanding and preventing construction site incidents

Answer 2

Accident Causation

Question 3

Essential for creating safe work environments

Answer 3

Accident Causation

Question 4

What are the theories of accident causation?

Answer 4

1. Domino Theory
2. Multiple Causation Theory
3. Human Factors Theory
4. Systems Theory
5. Energy Transfer Theory
6. Accident-Incident Causation Theory

Question 5

Proposed by Helbert William Heinrich in 1931
and states that Accidents as a chain reaction

Answer 5

Domino Theory

Question 6

Sequence of Domino Theory

Answer 6

1. Social environment
2. Fault of person
3. Unsafe act/condition
4. Accident
5. Injury

Question 7

Accidents result from multiple factors, not a single cause

Answer 7

Multiple Causation Theory

Question 8

The factors in multiply causation theory are:

Answer 8

unsafe acts, unsafe conditions, poor training policies or procedures, and inadequate supervision

Question 9

Focuses on human error as the main cause of accidents

Answer 9

Human Factors Theory

Question 10

Factors in Human Factors Theory are:

Answer 10

skill deficiencies, violations of rules or procedures, poor decision-making, and lack of situational awareness

Question 11

Accidents from complex interactions (worker, tasks, tools, environment)

Answer 11

Systems Theory

Question 12

The five subsystems in systems theory are:

Answer 12

Technical
Environmental
Individual
Organizational
Social

Question 13

Views accidents as uncontrolled energy transfer (mechanical, electrical, etc.)
and emphasizes the importance of identifying dangerous situations and implementing safety measures to prevent accidents from occurring

Answer 13

Energy Transfer Theory

Question 14

Expands on human factors and overload concepts
and states that the cause of an accident/incident are human error and/or system failure

Answer 14

Accident-Incident Causation Theory

Question 15

Importance of understanding accident causation and its application:

Answer 15

1. Identifying Patterns
2. Developing Safety Practices
3. Implementing Proactive Measures
4. Influencing Government Policies

Question 16

By looking at past accidents and close calls, project teams can spot potential dangers early and this lets them take steps to prevent problems before they can happen.

Answer 16

Proactive Risk Identification

Question 17

Some Casual factors that require proactive risk identification:

Answer 17

1. Human Factors
2. Environmental Factors
3. Job-related Factors
4. Management Factors
5. Improved Safety Culture
6. Targeted Interventions
7. Cost Saving

Question 18

During _____________________, accident causation analysis might reveal factors like poor weather or equipment failure as key risks. In response, project teams might adjust the construction schedule to avoid peak weather seasons, reinforce scaffolding, and implement additional safety checks on heavy lifting machinery.

Answer 18

bridge construction

Question 19

In ________________________, accident causation analysis can prevent falls and collapses by implementing secure scaffolding, harness use, and proper load distribution. Understanding these factors helps in setting up robust fall-prevention systems, improving both worker safety and structural stability.

Answer 19

High-rise construction

Question 20

will not happen by itself, but there are triggers for it to happen.

Answer 20

Accident

Question 21

Most of the accidents that occur are caused by

Answer 21

Unsafe behavior and/or unsafe conditions

Question 22

refers to actions by individuals that violate established safety procedures and guidelines. This could be intentional or unintentional, but it typically involves disregarding safety rules

Answer 22

Unsafe behavior

Question 23

A condition in which the layout of the workplace or the physical location of the work, the state of the apparatus, equipment and/or materials have been in violation of safety standards.

Answer 23

Unsafe Conditions

Question 24

What are the factors that contribute to accidents?

Answer 24

1. Human Element
2. Job Site Condition
3. Unique Nature of the Industry
4. Unsafe Equipment
5. Unsafe Methods
6. Environmental Factors
7. Management

Question 25

Refers to human related causes of accidents, including errors, lack of training and poor judgement

Answer 25

Human Element

Question 26

Refers to the physical state of the job itself, particularly if the site is disorganized or poorly maintained

Answer 26

Job Site Condition

Question 27

The construction industry is inherently high-risk due to the nature of its projects, which involve heavy machinery, complex operations, and unpredictable movements

Answer 27

Unique Nature of the Industry

Question 28

Accidents can occur due to equipment that is outdated, faulty, improperly maintained, or used incorrectly

Answer 28

Unsafe Equipment

Question 29

Work practices that do not follow safety guidelines

Answer 29

Unsafe Methods

Question 30

Environmental conditions, such as weather and natural hazards

Answer 30

Environmental Factors

Question 31

Poor management practices, including lack of planning, inadequate supervision and failure to enforce safety policies

Answer 31

Management

Question 32

Real-world example of accidents in Civil Engineering Projects:

Answer 32

1. Falls from Height 2. Struck by Object 3. Electrocution 4. Fire and Explosions 5. Fall from Scaffolding

Question 33

Case studies from Specific Projects:

Answer 33

1. The Tacoma Narrows Bridge 2. A Poorly Designed tower in London

Question 34

Twisted back and forth in strong winds before collapsing in 1940

Answer 34

The Tacoma Narrows Bridge

Question 35

Reflected and magnified sunlight until it was melting cars and frying eggs

Answer 35

A Poorly Designed Tower in London

Question 36

Economic impact of accidents on companies and workers includes:

Answer 36

1. Cost 2. Profitability 3. Worker and Well-Being 4. Company Reputation

Question 37

Accident's Impact on Safety Regulations and Laws are:

Answer 37

1. Identifying Trends 2. Improving Safety Protocols 3. Enhancing Safety and Health of Employees

Question 38

Construction projects can be complex and unsafe for the environment, affecting sustainable development.

Answer 38

Environmental Impact

Question 39

Accidents can lead to a loss of customers’ confidence, tarnishing of image, and loss of public confidence in the contractors

Answer 39

Social Impacts

Question 40

The _________________________are paramount in civil engineering. The code mandates engineers to prioritize public safety and welfare in all their professional decisions. This principle is the cornerstone of the profession, reflecting the profound responsibility civil engineers bear towards society

Answer 40

Safety and Welfare of the Public

Question 41

The code emphasizes the importance of competence and continuous learning. Civil engineers are expected to practice in their competence areas and keep their knowledge up to-date.

Answer 41

Competence and Knowledge

Question 42

Civil engineers are expected to take responsibility for their actions and decisions. This principle promotes integrity and professionalism, reinforcing society's trust in civil engineers.

Answer 42

Professional Accountability

Question 43

If violations of safety codes or regulations are found, firms can face fines, penalties, or orders to cease work until issues are corrected.

Answer 43

Regulatory Investigations and Fines

Question 44

Engineers may be ordered to pay significant amounts in damages through settlements or court judgments. This can include compensatory and punitive damages. The financial impact can be substantial, especially in cases involving severe accidents.

Answer 44

Financial Penalties

Question 45

In extreme cases where an engineer's actions involve gross negligence or willful misconduct that leads to serious harm or fatalities, _______________ could be filed.

Answer 45

criminal charges