What is the first step in an accident investigation?

Securing the scene to prevent further accidents and to preserve evidence is critical in the accident investigation process. This step ensures that the environment where the accident occurred is safe for responders and does not pose additional risks to personnel or bystanders. By securing the scene, investigators can also maintain the integrity of evidence, which is vital for understanding the factors that led to the incident. This preliminary action allows for a thorough and accurate analysis later on, as it prevents any alteration or loss of evidence that could impact the investigation.

Once the scene is secured, investigators can then move on to interviewing witnesses, documenting the incident, and analyzing the causes, but these tasks hinge on the safety and preservation of the initial site. Therefore, securing the scene is foundational to the entire investigation process.