Accident and incident occurrences have led to loss of invaluable cost in the oil and gas industry. Accidents or incidents however don‟t just occur but are caused by preceding events. This project clearly outlines the principals involved in accident/ incident investigation, critically reviews the techniques used in root cause analysis in order to identify their strengths and weaknesses, provides a detailed knowledge of the key phases employed in root cause analysis and develops recommendations for improvement and generation of implementation of root cause analysis report. On conclusion of this thesis through recommendations developed, lives will be saved by providing a safe and healthy working environment for personnel and the public in general, down time minimized, huge cost saved through adequate maintenance of facilities/ equipment, minimal or negligible insurance claims etc. This will thus ensure safety, health and reliability in the vibrant oil and gas industry. Despite having a standard training program, the level of competency to investigate accidents and incidents adequately and comprehensively vary from one safety professional or investigation team to another. This could be attributed to the number and types of accidents/incidents investigated i.e. experience, the frequency at which the investigations are carried out, information and documentation available for assessment, skills etc. Though these factors vary with age, experience, personal ability and industry, certain skills are essentially required for any accident or incident investigation. They include the following;
- Careful observation and understanding of key factors at the scene of the incident/accident and other areas of relevance to the occurrence
- An understanding of the technical, physical and chemical aspects of the incident/accident as the case may be
- Interviewing personnel and witnesses
- Taking of appropriate photographs and preparation of adequate sketches
- Ability of adequately record all relevant factors for future reference
- Evaluations of documentation i.e. work permits, operational manuals, and repairs/maintenance certification etc.
- Report writing
- The correct interpretation of relevant health and safety laws.
- Development of appropriate remedial action to prevent reoccurrence.
Keywords: Health, Oil and gas industry, Relation, Reliability, Safety
