Advice to ISAs on the use of accident and incident data

Accidents and incidents are potentially valuable sources of information for ISAs and others involved in safety. By understanding why and how they happen, safety can be improved in future and potentially dangerous situations avoided in new and existing systems. It is therefore important that ISAs make effective use of accident and incident data. The following guidance is offered regarding the use of accident and incident data by ISAs.

ISAs should know and understand the accident and incident data available in their field sufficiently well to be able to use it effectively in assessing safety arguments and evidence. They should therefore:

• Know where to obtain relevant accident and incident data
• Know the most significant accidents and incidents that have occurred
• Understand the causes of relevant accidents and incidents
• Understand the implications of the accidents and incidents for safety.

Guidance on use of accident and incident data by ISAs (675 k)