Reporting for duty: the value of accident-report training. (Risk Management).(aquatics)(Brief Article)

In litigation, the "accident report" or "incident report" often takes center stage. At the beginning of an investigation, it's one of the first documents attorneys ask for. Depending on how the staff completed the report, it can either validate and protect an organization, or it can make a case against an organization.

While it's essential that an accident form is well organized and asks the right questions, the most important aspect is how supervisors train staffers to fill out the form.

Every lifeguard in-service training program should include accident-report training. Thorough training emphasizes to each employee the importance of the report as a legal record and as a source of information on a facility's risks and hazards. In some cases, a report is required by local code.

Supervisors can test personnel on how well they understand accident report forms by presenting different accident or injury scenarios during training sessions, and having people complete report forms for each scenario. Scenarios should include both typical and worst-case incidents.

All reports should be reviewed promptly by supervisors. When supervisors begin seeing incomplete reports, they know it's time for a refresher on accident report training.

Staff training on accident-report forms can include the following topics:

* Thorough reporting. Whether filling in a blank, checking a box or circling a choice of items, the preparer must complete the entire form. Never leave an information request empty. Stressed or hurried staffers can easily overlook basic information such as the date and time of day.