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Root-Cause Analysis, Incident Investigation and Continual Improvement

Overview

Root Cause Analysis (RCA) identifies both obvious and underlying causes of non-conformances or incidents, enabling targeted corrective actions. A complete RCA involves clear problem definition, evidence-based analysis, corrective action planning, and monitoring effectiveness. For complex cases, a structured incident investigation report with logical recording and sound reasoning ensures causes are established and addressed, helping organisations prevent recurrence and strengthen safety and compliance. 

 

Why Should an Individual Attend?

  • Develop Expert-Level RCA Skills. Learn how to systematically uncover the root causes of incidents using proven tools like the “5× Why,” Fishbone Diagram, and Event Tree Analysis.
  • Reduce Operational Risks and Costs. Apply the 7 Quality Control Tools to identify inefficiencies, eliminate waste, and enhance process reliability across your organization.
  • Produce Clear, Actionable Investigation. Reports Master the art of compiling thorough incident reports with timelines, diagrams, and corrective action plans that drive real change.
  • Strengthen Analytical Thinking and Objectivity. Understand the value of impartiality, structured debate, and accurate documentation when investigating non-conformances.
  • Champion Continuous Improvement. Embrace quality systems like the “5-S” method, Quality Circles, and Lessons Learned frameworks to foster a culture of accountability and growth.

Outcomes

By the end of the course, delegates will be able to:
  • Spot Contributing Factors: Recognise how a chain of factors leads to non-conformances or incidents, empowering proactive prevention.
  • Use Proven Tools: Appreciate the critical role of standardised procedures, validated processes, and quality tools in driving effective investigations.
  • Champion Objectivity: Value open discussion, impartiality, and meticulous documentation to ensure credible and actionable outcomes.
  • Deliver Clear RCA Reports: Conduct thorough root cause analyses and produce incident investigation reports that inspire confidence and enable corrective action. 

Program Outline

Introduction

  • Reasons for Root Cause Analyses and Incident Investigations
  • Quality - the Golden Thread
  • Investigator Attributes and Investigation Techniques
  • Terminology
  • Incident Barriers - the Swiss Cheese Model
  • Categorisation of Findings
  • Pareto Analysis
  • Common Pitfalls.

Root Cause Analysis

  • Tools and Methodologies
  • Event and Causal Factor Diagram
    • Accident Investigations
  • 9-Step Conventional Techniques
    • Change Analysis
    • Ishikawa (Fish Bone) Diagram
    • "5× Why"
    • Event (Fault) Tree Analysis
    • Conclusions (Corrective Action Plan, Prevention and Validation)
  • Failure Mode, Effects and Criticality Analysis (FMECA)
  • Root Cause Analysis Register
  • Root Cause Analysis: Strengths vs. Limitations, and Other Methods 

Incident Investigation

  • Introduction: Counterfeit Parts
  • Typical Process Map
  • Report Layout
    • Timelines and Diagrams
    • Report Writing Considerations
    • Incident Classification
  • Risk Assessment Matrix
  • Legal Considerations.

Continuous Improvement

  • Man-Man and Man-Machine Interface
  • 12 Principles of Error Management
  • Determining Individual Culpability
  • Skill-Rule-Knowledge (SRK) Framework
  • Effective "Quality Tools"
    • Special Processes
    • Inspection Stamps
    • Quality Circles and Continual Improvement
  • Quality Control Tools
    • Flowchart
    • Histogram
    • Scatter Diagram
    • Stratification
    • Check Sheet
    • Statistical Process Control (SPC) and Control Charts
    • The "5-S" System
  • Plant Performance Trending (brief introduction)
  • Random Surveillance Audits
  • Quality Alert
  • Reading Log
  • Lessons Learned System (brief introduction).


Who Should Attend?

  • Engineers
  • Technicians
  • Technologist
  • Architects
  • Project / Construction Managers
  • Quantity Surveyors
  • Construction Health and Safety
  • Contractors / Sub Contractors
  • Middle Management
  • Senior Management
Dates and Times:
  • Mon 3 August 2026  08:30 to 16:30
Type: Online
Venue: Online,
Fee: R 3 913.04 excl. VAT
R 4 500.00 incl. VAT
Validation Number/s: CESA-2228-02/2027
ECSA CPD Points: 1.00
SACNASP Validation Number:
SACNASP CPD Points: 0.00
Coordinator: