Assignment

1. Why is a "ready" investigative kit so important and valuable to accident preparedness?

2. One step in the accident investigation process is preserving the scene of the accident. How do you preserve an accident scene?

3. There are several interviewing tips; which, in your opinion, is the most important?

4. Consider the following accident scenario:

Three 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. Worker #3 stayed outside the vault and called for emergency response after worker #2 collapsed.

Develop a list of five questions you would ask a witness to the accident. Explain why you chose each question.

5. 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. Worker #3 stayed outside the vault and called for emergency response after worker #2 collapsed.

Applying the "four P" evidence concept (physical, paper, people, and photographic), discuss the evidence related to the accident that you would want to collect. Explain the reasons for your choices.