Assignment

1. What is the difference between linear and non-linear accident models? Why are non-linear accident models not used more often in workplace accident investigations?

2. Why is it better to apply the multiple causation theory rather than the unsafe acts/unsafe conditions model to an accident investigation? Provide an example that illustrates your point.

3. Consider the following accident scenario:

Two workers were assigned to replace a water valve located in an underground concrete vault. After removing the manhole cover, worker #1 climbed down the ladder into the vault. Worker #1 collapsed and became unconscious within seconds of reaching the bottom. Worker #2 went down the ladder to rescue worker #1 but was quickly overcome by the lack of oxygen. Both workers died at the bottom of the vault.

Discuss how you could apply a domino theory to investigate this accident. You may make additional assumptions about the scenario, as needed, for your discussion.

4. Consider the following accident scenario:

Two workers were assigned to replace a water valve located in an underground concrete vault. After removing the manhole cover, worker #1 climbed down the ladder into the vault. Worker #1 collapsed and became unconscious within seconds of reaching the bottom. Worker #2 went down the ladder to rescue worker #1 but was quickly overcome by the lack of oxygen. Both workers died at the bottom of the vault.

Discuss how you could apply the Haddon matrix theory to investigate this accident. You may make additional assumptions about the scenario, as needed, for your discussion.