Safety Trained Supervisor (STS) Practice Exam

Who is best suited to conduct investigations for minor incidents and near misses?

1. The safety officer

2. A human resources representative

3. The supervisor

4. A senior management official

The correct answer is: The supervisor

The best choice for conducting investigations for minor incidents and near misses is the supervisor. Supervisors are typically on the front lines of operations and have direct oversight of the employees and the work environment. They possess detailed knowledge of the specific tasks being performed, the employees involved, and the context in which the incident occurred. This direct insight is crucial for effective investigation and determining the underlying causes of incidents or near misses. Supervisors can also facilitate open communication with the involved employees, encouraging them to share their perspectives, which can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of the circumstances surrounding the incident. This knowledge enables supervisors to identify potential corrective actions to prevent future occurrences. In contrast, other roles like the safety officer, human resources representative, or senior management official may not have the same level of immediate involvement or understanding of the specific operations, which can limit their effectiveness in conducting thorough investigations of minor incidents and near misses. Their roles often focus more on policy implementation, compliance, or organizational oversight rather than direct day-to-day operations.