Learning From Construction Accidents: A Causal Analysis Supporting Preventive Action Planning: UMA ANÁLISE CAUSAL PARAAPOIAR O PLANEAMENTO DE AÇÕES PREVENTNAS
Synopsis
The construction sector continues to record high rates of serious and fatal occupational accidents, despite regulatory and technological advances. Accident investigation reports contain relevant information; however, they are not always systematically converted into preventive actions that promote organizational learning. This study aims to analyse accident investigation reports in the construction sector, identifying immediate causes and root causes to support the development of a structured model for planning preventive actions. A qualitative and descriptive documentary analysis was carried out based on fifteen official accident investigation reports from recognized institutions. Accidents were classified by type and project phase, and a causal analysis was performed using the “5 Whys” method and Root Cause Analysis (RCA), supported by the Cause Tree technique and aligned with the principles of ISO 45001.
The results showed that 73% of the accidents analysed could have been avoided. Falls from height and
structural collapses were the most frequent events. The main root causes identified were failures in
planning, inadequate supervision, insufficient training and communication shortcomings, highlighting the
weight of organisational factors.
The findings reinforce the importance of a systemic approach to accident investigation and demonstrate
that transforming investigation conclusions into structured preventive actions can significantly contribute
to improving safety management and reducing the recurrence of accidents in construction.
