Identifying Causes of Accidents And Enhancing Safety Using the Fishbone Method: an Application in Excavation

Excavation and earthworks are considered fundamental activities within the construction sector, and therefore, accidents occurring during excavation work cannot be separated from general accidents within the construction industry. These activities entail a range of hazards and risks, highlighting the critical importance of taking necessary precautions and providing training before commencing excavation work. The aim is to eliminate potential risks at their source by using appropriate equipment and adopting suitable excavation methods. If risks cannot be entirely eliminated, it is crucial to reduce them to acceptable levels by ensuring that workers use appropriate personal protective equipment, conducting regular maintenance of vehicles and equipment, and providing ongoing training. In this study, an incident that occurred during excavation work in Iğdır province was evaluated through a Fishbone analysis within the context of cause-and-effect relationships. The origins of the accident were thoroughly examined, and the results were assessed. Factors such as the absence of occupational health and safety measures, lack of workplace organization, and absence of trained personnel were identified as contributors to increased accident probability. Additionally, the study suggests that along with the absence of preventive measures, post-accident protective measures were also inadequate. It emphasizes that individuals lacking sufficient knowledge during rescue operations exacerbate the situation. Furthermore, it was concluded that activities performed by individuals lacking adequate knowledge of the equipment and machinery used in excavation work pose higher risks. The necessity of fostering a culture of occupational health and safety is underscored, highlighting its role in anticipating potential accidents and adhering to necessary procedures.