Documentation of an accident investigation should:

• A. Involve Subjective Written Statements from Every Witness
• B. Include Photos That Encompass 360 Degrees Around the Incident
• C. Be Objective, Impartial, and Fact-Finding
• D. Be Reviewed by the Next Highest Officer

Answer: (C)

Objective, impartial, fact-finding documentation is essential because it creates a believable record that others can verify and use for investigation and prevention. This means sticking to observable and measurable details: when and where the incident happened, the sequence of events as they occurred, physical evidence at the scene, environmental or equipment conditions, and witness statements presented as reported without inserting personal judgments about fault. The goal is to capture a clear, verifiable account that can be reviewed, challenged if needed, and used to identify root causes and implement safeguards.

Photos and supervisory review can enhance the record, but they don’t substitute for objectivity. Photos should be described within the factual record and interpreted cautiously, and any review by a supervisor helps catch errors or bias, not replace the need for a neutral, evidence-based account.