The CD-based programme is designed to raise the awareness of the importance of proper accident or near-accident investigations. It includes tools to identify the root cause of incidents and provides potential solutions to correct hazardous conditions or behaviour.

"Thoroughly investigating accidents and near misses is a critical step in preventing future accidents and is an important part of a continuously improving safety programme," according to Kari Waters, corporate health and safety manager for Gold’n Plump Poultry, and chairperson of the recently unified Joint Industry Safety and Health Council.

"The programme includes several case studies to be used for employee training. It allows employees to practice what they have learned and to ensure they grasp the concepts being presented. We found that most training participants felt case studies and actual practice are beneficial," she said.

The kit was developed by Paul Pressley, vice president of the Poultry & Egg Institute and members of the Joint Industry Safety and Health Council, comprised of safety management professionals from member companies of the National Chicken Council, National Turkey Federation and USPOULTRY. The programme is in a PowerPoint format to allow companies to customize the content for their own policies and procedures.

CD versions are available at no charge for US Poultry & Egg Association members, and $200 for non-members. The CD may be ordered online [click here].