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5 why incident investigation template

5 why incident investigation template

Analyze incidents effectively with this 5 why incident investigation template. It helps identify root causes through a structured questioning process. Use this template to implement corrective actions and prevent recurrence.

Use this template
or download pdf
5 why incident investigation template

Analyze incidents effectively with this 5 why incident investigation template. It helps identify root causes through a structured questioning process. Use this template to implement corrective actions and prevent recurrence.

Use this template
or download pdf

About the 5 why incident investigation template

The 5 why incident investigation template is designed to help you delve deeply into the root causes of workplace incidents. This template guides you through a structured process, asking “why” up to five times to uncover the underlying issues. By using this method, you can move beyond surface-level explanations while you identify the core reasons for incidents.

The template begins with a clear description of the incident, followed by a series of “why” questions that prompt deeper analysis. This iterative process helps you explore each cause and effect relationship, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the incident. By identifying root causes, you can also develop targeted corrective actions that address the real issues, preventing recurrence.

Using the 5 why incident investigation template enhances your problem-solving capabilities, promotes accountability, and supports a culture of continuous improvement. This approach not only improves safety outcomes but also optimizes your incident management processes.

Key elements of a 5 why incident investigation template

Understanding the key elements of a 5 why incident investigation template is essential for conducting thorough root cause analyses. Here are the crucial components you should include:

  • Incident description: Start with a clear and concise description of the incident, including the date, time, location, and individuals involved. This provides the foundational context necessary for a meaningful analysis.
  • Initial problem statement: Clearly define the problem you are investigating. Having a precise problem statement focuses your analysis and ensures that your investigation remains targeted and effective.
  • The 5 why analysis: This section guides you through asking “why” up to five times, each response leading you deeper into the underlying causes of the incident. This iterative questioning helps you move beyond surface-level explanations to uncover root causes.
  • Corrective actions: Based on the insights gained from the 5 why analysis, outline specific corrective actions to address the identified root causes. Documenting these actions ensures accountability and supports continuous improvement.

By incorporating these elements into your 5 why incident investigation template, you can create a robust tool that enhances problem-solving, ensures thorough documentation, and improves overall safety and process management.

Why you should use a 5 why incident investigation template

The 5 why method is adaptable and can be applied to various incidents, from safety concerns to operational inefficiencies. By incorporating this template into your incident management practices, you can enhance safety, promote continuous improvement, and drive more effective corrective actions across your organization.

Also because organizations need to thoroughly understand the root causes of workplace incidents. This approach is particularly effective when you need to delve deeper than surface-level explanations to identify underlying issues. It also facilitates collaboration among team members, ensuring that everyone is aligned in the problem-solving process and that no critical detail is missed. 

Related categories

  • Health and safety management templates
  • Risk management and compliance templates
  • General templates
  • Incident management templates
Preview of the template
Page 1
Incident Details
Describe the incident
When did the incident occur?
geolocation!!!
Who was involved in the incident?
5 Why Analysis
Why did the incident occur?
Why did that happen?
Why did that happen?
Why did that happen?
Why did that happen?
Corrective Actions
What immediate actions were taken?
What long-term corrective actions will be implemented?
Who is responsible for implementing the corrective actions?
By what date will the corrective actions be completed?

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Related resources

Access a complete set of resources aimed at maximizing safety, quality, and operational excellence, including detailed guides, related templates, and real-world use cases.

Topic guides

Read in-depth guides covering key topics related to this article.

Incident management: A deep diveHow to write an incident report: Your complete guide5 whys method: A practical guide for root cause analysisA3 lean explained: A guide to efficient problem-solving 
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Template collections

See comprehensive collections of best practice templates related to this topic.

Top 7 free incident investigation form templates for complianceFree 5 whys templates for root cause analysisCollection of 21 free incident report templates for every industry4 free workplace incident report templates
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Check out how the Lumiform software can be utilized for related use cases.

Incident management softwareIncident report softwareSafety Incident Reporting SoftwareRisk management software for anticipating and adressing safety risks
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5 types of incident reports5 why analysis templateHow to perform safety inspections4 ways process improvement increases profits

Frequently asked questions

How does the 5 why method improve incident investigation?

The 5 why method improves incident investigation by guiding you to ask “why” multiple times, which helps uncover root causes rather than just addressing symptoms. This deeper understanding allows you to implement more effective corrective actions, ultimately preventing future incidents and enhancing workplace safety.

What should I do if I struggle to identify the root cause using the 5 why method?

If you struggle to identify the root cause, involve diverse team members in the discussion to gain different perspectives. Sometimes, stepping back to review the sequence of events or considering external factors can provide new insights that lead to the underlying issue.

Why is it important to document findings from a 5 why analysis?

Documenting findings from a 5 why analysis is crucial because it ensures transparency and accountability. It provides a clear record of the investigation process and the rationale behind corrective actions, which is valuable for future reference and continuous improvement efforts.

How can I ensure my team effectively uses the 5 why template?

To ensure effective use, provide training on the 5 why methodology and its importance in identifying root causes. Encourage open communication and collaborative analysis, and regularly review completed templates to reinforce best practices and improve the investigation process over time.


This template, developed by Lumiform employees, serves as a starting point for businesses using the Lumiform platform and is intended as a hypothetical example only. It does not replace professional advice. Companies should consult qualified professionals to assess the suitability and legality of using this template in their specific workplace or jurisdiction. Lumiform is not liable for any errors or omissions in this template or for any actions taken based on its content.
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