The Accident Investigation Methodology (AIM), developed for the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health through a contract effort by Safety Sciences of San Diego, California, is a composite procedure utilizing many useful concepts and approaches from existing investigative techniques in addition to innovations. The investigation procedure is oriented toward the identification of occupational accident/injury countermeasures and associated research needs. Emphasis is placed upon modern "systems theory," which considers human factors as a primarily intended for knowledgeable safety practitioners with some previous experience. Interviewing techniques and preparations for conducting an investigation are thoroughly addressed. The necessary tools and forms for actual investigation are included, as well as a sophisticated analysis procedure and coding system for the computer accessing of all relevant data.

Key terms accident; accident coding; accident investigation; accident investigation methodology; investigation manual; National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health; NIOSH; safety investigation