To reduce liability concerns when conducting an accident investigation, what should the ISO do?

Following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and adhering to established standards set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is critical in reducing liability concerns during an accident investigation. When an Incident Safety Officer (ISO) operates within these frameworks, it helps ensure that the investigation is conducted in a legally sound manner, minimizing exposure to potential litigation.

By following these guidelines, the ISO demonstrates compliance with regulatory requirements, which can signify due diligence. This creates a baseline of accountability, reinforcing the integrity of the investigation and the decisions made during the process. Such adherence to established protocols can also provide a defense in the event that questions about the investigation's conduct arise in the future.

While gathering information from the scene, developing solutions, or notifying the Incident Commander of potential conflicts are all important components of an effective incident management strategy, they do not inherently address the liability concerns the question focuses on. The key to limiting liability lies in the foundational practices that SOPs and industry standards provide, as they are specifically designed to safeguard both personnel and organization against legal ramifications.