What is the first step in the incident investigation process?

The first step in the incident investigation process is reporting the incident. Reporting is crucial because it initiates the investigative process and allows for timely response actions to be taken. It ensures that the appropriate parties are alerted, which can subsequently lead to immediate measures being implemented to prevent further occurrences and protect individuals from harm. Accurate and prompt reporting enables investigators to collect relevant data while the details are still fresh in the minds of those involved, ensuring a more thorough and accurate investigation.

Other steps mentioned, such as documenting safety training, reviewing safety policies, and conducting interviews with witnesses, are important in the overall process but occur after the incident has been reported. These actions help to inform the investigation and develop improved safety measures but do not serve as the initial trigger for the investigation. Hence, reporting the incident is the foundational first step in addressing and understanding what occurred.