Overview

Technical and Quality related Root Cause Analyses (RCA) and Incident Investigations are required to maintain and improve the quality of the products and services rendered, and for the enhancement of safety in the workplace.

RCA is a reactive method to identify both the obvious and the underlying causes of a non-conformance or incident so that specific solutions can be implemented.  A complete RCA consists of a clear definition of the problem, a thorough analysis supported by evidence, a specific corrective action plan for implementing the solutions and monitoring the effectiveness of those corrective actions.

For complex problems and costly blunders, a thoroughly documented multi-faceted incident investigation report may be required.  A standardised layout, logical recording and well considered reasoning are of cardinal importance when the causes and contributing factors of incidents are to be established and presented.  The method of recording will not only make the job of the investigator(s) much easier but will also enable the Review Board to issue instructions that will effectively address the root cause(s) to prevent a future recurrence.

Why Should an Individual Attend?

The purpose of the course is to offer proven RCA and incident investigation techniques to enable course delegates to accurately establish the causal factors that led to a non-conformance or incident, and to recommend appropriate preventive and corrective actions.

Outcomes

• Recognise that generally a chain of events is required to result in a non-conformance/incident.
• Appreciate the significance of appropriate procedures and quality tools when investigating non-conformances and incidents.
• Respect the importance of impartiality, thorough debating and diligent recording.
• Undertake effective RCAs and compile meaningful incident investigation reports.

Program Outline

Part 1:  Introduction 

• Reasons for Root Cause Analyses        
• Typical Examples of Poor Quality        
• Quality - the Golden Thread 
• Human Performance Considerations             
• Categorisation of Findings       
• Common Pitfalls         

Part 2:  Root Cause Analysis (Theory)

• Root Cause Analysis:  Tools and Methodologies 
• Root Cause Analysis:  Event and Causal Factor Tree
• Root Cause Analysis in Incident Investigations 
• Root Cause Analysis:  Conventional Techniques 

Part 3:  Effective Quality Tools 

• Special Processes         
• Failure Mode, Effects and Criticality Analysis (FMECA)
• Quality Circles and Continual Improvement
• Statistical Process Control:  Introduction       
• Random Surveillance Audits   
• Quality Alerts   
• Lessons Learned

Part 4:  Practical Application of RCA techniques

• Root Cause Analysis:  Individual Exercises    
• Root Cause Analysis:  Case Studies and Group Discussion
• Root Cause Analysis:  Case Studies and Group Exercise
• Root Cause Analysis:  Case Studies and Group Presentation
• Root Cause Analysis Register

Who Should Attend?

• Engineers
• Architects
• Project / Construction Managers
• Quantity Surveyors
• Construction Health and Safety             
• Executives / Senior Management     
• Administrators / Support Staff
• Contractors / Sub Contractors
• Middle Management
• Senior Management