Modules

009 Investigation techniques

Scope

This module covers skills and techniques required in respect of investigations undertaken in your role. This may include investigations of incidents, fire safety, accidents, discipline and welfare. It will include informal and formal investigations.

Skill Objectives

Analytical skills Collect and interpret information. Make sound judgements, draw realistic conclusions and make recommendations to assist with the investigation. Information will be obtained through interviews, existing documentation, observation and physical evidence. Questioning skills Use a range of questioning styles and techniques to elicit information relevant to the purpose of the investigation. Communication skills Present results of investigations in written or verbal format as appropriate to the type and purpose of investigation.

Knowledge Objectives

The range and type of investigations which you have responsibility and authority to undertaken yourself and/or contribute to
Procedures and requirements for undertaking and investigation
Relevant internal and external requirements and legislation
Types of evidence and its importance
How to identify and preserve evidence
Recording systems relevant to investigations and how to use them
Sources, availability and access to information to support investigations
How to treat colleagues and members of the public with respect, taking account of, and accepting diversity
Hazards and risks of the workplace affecting people and the environment
Lines and methods of communication in the workplace, including the incident ground
Roles, responsibilities and limits of authority of self, others and other agencies in conduct of investigations

Relevant National Occupational Standards

Relevant Personal Skills

Acting Assertively states own position and views clearly in conflict situations
Behaving ethically complies with legislation, industry regulation, professional and organisational codes
Building teams shows sensitivity to the needs and feelings of others
Communicating adopts communication styles appropriate to listeners and situations, including selecting an appropriate time and place
  listens actively, asks questions, clarifies points and rephrases others' statements to check mutual understanding
Conceptualising identifies patterns of meaning from events and data which are not obviously related
  uses own experience and evidence from others to identify problems and understand situation
Focusing on results maintains a focus on objectives
Influencing others develops and uses contacts to exchange information and obtain support and resources
  presents oneself positively to others
Relating to others identifies and resolves causes of conflict or resistance
Searching for information breaks processes down into tasks and activities and required outcomes
  challenges the validity and reliability of sources of information
  identifies a range of elements in, and perspectives on a situation
  identifies implications, consequences or causal relationships in a situation
  identifies implications, consequences or causal relationships in a situation
  seeks clarity of information in ambiguous situations
  seeks information from multiple sources
Taking Decisions focuses on facts, problems and solutions
  reconciles and makes use of a variety of perspectives when making sense of a situation