A method to determine the effectiveness of the application of the investigation process for electrical incidents

Abstract

This study examines the application of the investigation process in industry to reduce electrical arc flash incidents. Literature indicates that three streams (policies, completed investigations and investigators) influence the application of the investigation process; however, these are traditionally analysed independently without examining the dynamic influences between them. This study combines and analyses those dynamic interactions, and testing at a steel plant demonstrates that this approach allows industry to identify site specific deficiencies. The investigation process requirements, identified in literature, were used to qualitatively and quantitatively analyse the three streams. The results were interpreted using triangulation. Deficiencies around disseminating reports and using experienced investigators were identified. These plant specific deficiencies are an improvement from generic findings in literature. This study contributed to knowledge in the field of incident investigations by proposing a holistic approach that is operationally ready, and identifies deficiencies specific to the industry in which it is used.