The Department of Energy (DOE) Accident Prevention and Investigation Program serves as a key DOE corporate safety resource for promoting accident PREVENTION through exchange of lessons learned and information for improvement of our integrated safety management system. The techniques and tools utilized in the investigation of "accidents" can be valuable in looking at leading indicators associated with our safety program, to determine the embedded precursors to accidents, and prevent them from occurring. The information obtained through application of these techniques and tools serve as benchmarks for others to utilize in evaluating their safety management systems.
The AI program provides ongoing corporate program support resources for DOE line programs. We depend on each DOE site to assure adequate numbers of: accident investigators; analysts; technical experts and, readiness teams who are prepared to rapidly respond to investigate accidents.
The Corporate Safety Programs maintains the Accident Investigation and Prevention Handbook (DOE-HDBK-1208-2012) as part of a continuing effort to enhance quality and achieve program goals and objectives. The Handbook describes the process and principal activities for conducting accident investigations, in accordance with DOE Order 225.1B, Accident Investigations. DOE Order 225.1B establishes requirements and responsibilities for Headquarters, heads of field elements, Accident Investigation Boards, and DOE contractors, who must collectively implement the Accident Investigation Program. Additionally, HSS has developed: SAF-230 - 40 hour Accident Investigator, and the online SAF-230DE Accident Investigation Orientation, training courses. For more information see the link to training below.
We encourage you to participate in AI training programs, volunteer to serve on an AI Board, study our reports, and utilize AI information and tools to improve your safety management system performance at your facility. We believe you will find the materials and tools on our web site useful. If you have any questions please contact me for more information or assistance: Gary T. Staffo, PE, CSP, CPE; DOE Accident Investigation Program Manager, Office of Analysis (AU-23), Office of Health Safety and Security, 19901 Germantown Road, Germantown, MD 20874-1290.