What does "root cause analysis" aim to identify?

Root cause analysis is a systematic process used to identify the fundamental issues that lead to undesirable outcomes such as accidents, injuries, or operational failures. The core objective of conducting a root cause analysis is to go beyond treating symptoms and instead uncover the underlying causes that, if addressed, can prevent the recurrence of similar problems in the future.

This approach typically involves a thorough investigation into various contributing factors, including human error, equipment failure, system flaws, and organizational issues. By pinpointing these root causes, organizations can implement more effective interventions, strategies, and changes in processes that contribute to safer work environments and improved operational efficiency.

The other choices do not align with the primary goal of root cause analysis. Identifying the most common types of workplace accidents, measuring the frequency of employee injuries, or evaluating the effectiveness of safety training are all important elements within the broader context of workplace safety, but they do not directly address the analysis of underlying causes that lead to these incidents.