After a serious incident on site, preserving the scene and evidence is critical for the investigation. The HSE, police, or insurers may need to examine the scene to establish what happened and why. Disturbing evidence or cleaning up too early can obstruct an investigation and may constitute a criminal offence. This talk explains what to do after an incident to protect the evidence and support a thorough investigation.
Key Hazards
Loss of critical evidence from premature scene clean-up
Obstruction of justice by tampering with or removing evidence
Inaccurate investigation findings from contaminated scene data
Further injuries from unstable equipment at an uncontrolled scene
Control Measures
Secure the incident scene immediately with barriers and cordon tape.
Do not move, clean, or alter anything at the scene unless required to prevent further danger.
Take photographs and video of the scene from multiple angles as soon as it is safe to do so.
Record the names and contact details of all witnesses present at the time.
Note the exact time, date, weather conditions, and lighting at the time of the incident.
Preserve any plant, equipment, or materials involved by isolating and locking them off.
Restrict access to the scene to essential personnel only until formally released.
Retain CCTV footage, permits, risk assessments, and method statements related to the task.
Do not allow the scene to be released until authorised by the site manager or HSE inspector.
Remember
Secure the scene immediately with barriers and prevent any unauthorised access
Do not move or alter anything unless needed to prevent further danger
Photograph the scene from multiple angles as soon as it is safe
Record all witness names and contact details before people leave the area
The scene must not be released until formally authorised by the site manager or HSE
Applicable Legislation: Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · RIDDOR 2013 · CDM 2015 · Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007