Format Incident Report: Examples and Step-by-Step Template

This course consists of the following units:

Module 1 – Introduction to Accident Investigation
Learn what accident investigation is and why it matters for safety and compliance.
Understand the difference between accidents, incidents, near misses, and hazards.

Module 2 – The Investigation Process
Follow a clear investigation workflow from first response to final review.
Learn how to plan investigations fairly and without bias.

Module 3 – Evidence Collection & Analysis
Explore how to gather physical, digital, and witness evidence correctly.
Learn to organise evidence so conclusions are accurate and defendable.

Module 4 – Root Cause Analysis
Understand tools such as the 5 Whys and fishbone diagrams.
Identify both immediate causes and deeper system failures.

Module 5 – Writing Effective Accident Reports
Learn how to write clear, factual, and structured reports.
Practise presenting findings in a professional and readable way.

Module 6 – Corrective & Preventive Actions (CAPA)
Plan actions that remove causes and reduce future risk.
Learn how to track improvements and measure effectiveness.

Module 7 – Legal & Regulatory Framework
Review employer responsibilities, reporting rules, and documentation needs.
Understand how investigations support compliance and liability control.

Module 8 – Future of Accident Investigation & CPD
Explore new trends such as digital reporting and data-driven prevention.
Learn how CPD keeps investigators skilled and up to date.

Completing the Accident Investigation & Reporting CPD supports careers in workplace safety, compliance, and operational leadership. Graduates can strengthen or pursue roles such as Health and Safety Officer, Site Supervisor, Risk Coordinator, Compliance Assistant, HR Adviser, Quality Inspector, or Facilities Manager. The course also benefits team leaders who must manage incident response and reporting. With experience, learners may progress into senior positions like HSE Manager, Safety Auditor, Operations Manager, or Risk and Compliance Lead. This qualification shows employers that you can investigate incidents professionally, improve safety systems, and help prevent repeat accidents across any sector.

Upon successful completion of the Accident Investigation & Reporting CPD, candidates will have two certificate options to choose from:

Option 1: Certificate Issued by the Quality Licence Scheme (QLS)

This certificate is issued by the Quality License Scheme, confirming that the course meets high-quality education standards. It is ideal for learners who wish to showcase their formal completion of a professionally developed training program.

Option 2: Accredited CPD Certificate Issued by the CPD Standards Office

Candidates also have the option to claim a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) certificate, accredited by the CPD Standards Office. This internationally recognized certificate is particularly suitable for professionals who want to demonstrate their commitment to ongoing development and enhance their CPD records.

Both certificates offer valuable recognition and can strengthen your professional profile across a range of industries.

Do I need prior experience to take this course?
No. The course starts from the basics and explains every step in simple, practical language.

Can I study at my own pace?
Yes. It is fully online and self-paced, so you can learn whenever and wherever suits you.

Will I learn a standard format incident report?
Yes. You will learn a clear reporting structure, including how to record facts, causes, and corrective actions professionally.

What is accident investigation and reporting?
It is the process of finding out what happened, why it happened, and how to prevent it happening again, then recording the findings in a structured report.

What is the main purpose of an accident investigation?
The main purpose is prevention—identifying causes and weaknesses so risks can be controlled before another incident occurs.