Fault Tree Analysis
Used by the Aerospace, Nuclear, Petrochemical, Refining, and other industries
Identify Root Causes of A Major Event - or Any Problem
Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) is systematic technique to pinpoint the root causes of major events. This is typically something like a fire, explosion, or toxic release. This method was used to identify the technical and administrative causes of the Challenger and Columbia shuttle explosions. It's similar to FMEA (Failure Modes & Effects Analysis), but this approach involves working backwards from the actual or imaginary incident to the basic causes. These issues can often be prevented by simple, cost-effective measures or easy-to-learn procedures. This technique can help you address a wide range of issues, whether at home or in your business and can save time, resources, and improve overall safety.
Major Catastrophic Incident
A major catastrophic incident or accident usually occurs after many safety features or operating procedures have been breached or allowed to decay, often over a period of many years. When this occurs, root causes are often found in the management and culture of an organization, but it's best not use this as your primary motivation during an investigation. Keep in mind that the people affected are often emotionally overcome and are their own worst critics. They are the people who are most motivated to prevent another disaster.
Incident Investigations
Although personal responsibility and accountability are essential to a well-run organization, it's best not to focus your energies on simply blaming one person or small group during an investigation. A major Fortune 500 company used this philosophy: "Let's not waste time fixing blame. Instead, let's work together to correct the problem and get the plant running again."
As a wise mentor once advised during some training, "When you point the fickle finger of blame at someone, watch out. Remember that there are three pointing back at you." He knew that a punitive atmosphere may drive people to hide important facts in an investigation.
