Root cause analysis typically requires what kind of team?

Root cause analysis typically requires what kind of team?

• A. A team of trained professionals alert to accident causation models
• B. A single investigator with authority
• C. External auditors only
• D. Front-line workers only

Answer: (A)

Root cause analysis works best when it’s led by a cross-functional team of trained professionals who are familiar with accident causation models. This kind of team can apply structured methods—such as cause-and-effect analysis or the 5 Whys—and review data from multiple angles to uncover deeper, systemic factors behind an incident, not just the surface symptoms. The trained professionals bring objectivity, experience with evidence collection, and the ability to verify findings, which helps translate analysis into effective corrective actions that address root causes. Relying on just one investigator, external auditors alone, or front-line workers only tends to miss broader organizational factors, bias, or implementation challenges, and thus is less effective at preventing recurrence.

Root cause analysis works best when it’s led by a cross-functional team of trained professionals who are familiar with accident causation models. This kind of team can apply structured methods—such as cause-and-effect analysis or the 5 Whys—and review data from multiple angles to uncover deeper, systemic factors behind an incident, not just the surface symptoms. The trained professionals bring objectivity, experience with evidence collection, and the ability to verify findings, which helps translate analysis into effective corrective actions that address root causes. Relying on just one investigator, external auditors alone, or front-line workers only tends to miss broader organizational factors, bias, or implementation challenges, and thus is less effective at preventing recurrence.