What does "root cause analysis" aim to achieve?

Root cause analysis is a systematic process designed to identify the fundamental reasons behind an incident or problem. Its primary goal is to uncover the underlying factors that contribute to incidents, such as accidents, injuries, or operational failures, with the aim of implementing corrective measures to prevent their recurrence. By focusing on root causes rather than symptoms, organizations can develop more effective interventions that address the actual issues at play, thereby enhancing overall safety and operational efficiency.

This method stands out because it encourages a proactive approach to safety management rather than a reactive one, allowing organizations to learn from past incidents and to foster a culture of continuous improvement. Other options, such as punishing employees, improving productivity, or assessing satisfaction levels, do not align with the fundamental objective of root cause analysis, which is to identify and eliminate root problems to enhance safety and prevent future incidents.