Element element element element element what should be investigated?

44
1.4
ELEMENT 1.1
ELEMENT 1.4
ELEMENT 1.2
ELEMENT 1.3
ELEMENT 1.5
Reasons for carrying out prompt interviews
Interviews should be undertaken as soon as possible following an incident to ensure an effective investigation, but also 
because:
y
witnesses may forget things if not interviewed quickly;
y
the brain can alter memories, especially after a trauma; and
y
if witnesses have an opportunity to discuss the incident among themselves, their memories may be altered by other people's 
opinions.
The PEACE model for interviewing
The PEACE model for interviewing is used by many different agencies, including the police service and government 
departments. A lack of structure and planning during the interview process can result in:
y
critical information not being captured;
y
loss of confidence in the investigation team due to the inability to capture sensitive information; and
y
a witness not being truthful, or being reluctant to participate in the interview process.
PEACE stands for the following elements to be covered during the interview process:
P
E
A
C
E
planning and preparation
engage and explain
account, clarification and challenge
closure
evaluation

---

NEBOSH HSE Introduction to Incident Investigation
45
1.4
ELEMENT 1.4
ELEMENT 1.2
ELEMENT 1.5
ELEMENT 1.1
ELEMENT 1.3
Planning and preparation
P
This stage is essentially the process behind getting ready for the interview, and all elements should be reviewed and agreed 
before starting the interview process, to ensure the best methods are adopted.
y
Getting the location right is important – somewhere quiet, without distractions or interruptions. It is also important to 
consider whether the interview should be held on or off site. There are benefits and limitations to holding interviews on site. 
Some of the benefits include:
–
the incident site can be visited during interview to clarify positions;
–
interviewees will be familiar with the site; and
–
it feels less formal so may make an interviewee feel more comfortable.
Limitations include:
–
interruptions during interview, due to the proximity; and
–
post-traumatic stress for the interviewee after witnessing an incident in the vicinity of the interview room.
y
Allow sufficient time for the interview to be conducted thoroughly, how ever long that may take. There is a possibility that 
an interviewee may need time out to compose themselves.
y
Prepare an interview plan, based on the facts that need to be established – ie aims and purpose of interview. This can be 
determined by what is already known, and what needs to be uncovered.
y
Establish a timeline to plot the sequence of events during interview – it can even be helpful to have this in the vicinity 
during the interview.
y
Creating a checklist prior to interview can help ensure all relevant areas are covered.
y
Interview one person at a time, and use a scribe* to help the interview flow better. This is the ideal situation but there may 
be times when other people will be required to be in the interview room. Examples of this include:
–
trade union/worker body representation;
–
translator;
–
buddy;
–
Human Resources representative; and
–
solicitor/lawyer who may be representing either the employer or the interviewee.
* In some cases, audio or video recording of the interview in place of or as well as a scribe may be required.

---

NEBOSH HSE Introduction to Incident Investigation