Investigation of other accidents and incidents

In the other accidents investigation branch, collapses, fires, explosions, and traffic accidents are investigated when they do not fall under the responsibility of any other investigation branch. There are no international requirements, agreements, or guidelines governing the investigation of these types of accidents, which means that the decision to investigate, the investigation work, and the final report are carried out entirely on the basis of national legislation.

The decision to initiate an investigation is made by the Safety Investigation Authority of Finland (OTKES). The decision is influenced, among other things, by whether another body is already investigating the accident. For example, the Accident Information Institute (www.oti.fi) investigates most road traffic accidents.

The most important factor when deciding whether to initiate an investigation is whether the case is expected to provide new information that can improve general safety. The severity of the accident also affects the decision. For instance, any case that meets the criteria for a major accident is always investigated.

A joint investigation (thematic investigation) may be conducted for several similar accidents or dangerous situations. Thematic investigations are carried out in all investigation branches.