ICAM Lead Incident Investigation | ONLINE

ICAM Methodology Online Course

The self-paced ICAM Lead Incident Investigation Online Course covers the Incident Cause Analysis Method (ICAM). Based on Professor James Reason’s research on human error, ICAM provides a structured framework for identifying root causes and preventing incident recurrence. This methodology is currently utilised by WHS professionals, supervisors, and safety managers across high-risk industries.

The 6 core steps of the Incident Cause Analysis Method (ICAM) are taught in the OHSA Lead Investigator course.

INVESTIGATION TOOLS COVERED

The online modules instruct students on how to apply standard investigation tools, including:

• The Swiss Cheese Model & 5 Whys Technique: Used to trace the sequence of events and lifecycle of a workplace incident.
• Failure Identification: Identifying active and latent failures within organisational systems.
• The PEEPO Data Collection Matrix: Systematically gathering data across People, Environment, Equipment, Procedures, and Organisation.
• The Four Causal Factor Elements: Analysing Absent/Failed Defences, Individual/Team Actions, Task/Environment Factors, and Organisational Factors.

The Swiss Cheese Model of accident causation is a fundamental framework taught in the OHSA ICAM Lead Investigator course.

CAREER OUTCOMES

Upon completing this online course, graduates possess the foundational skills required to lead or contribute to formal workplace incident investigations. Furthermore, the training prepares individuals to meet standard industry reporting requirements and fulfil specific safety and WHS investigation responsibilities within their organisations.

COURSE DURATION & TIMEFRAMES

Estimated Study Hours: This online, self-paced course takes approximately 15-20 hours to complete. This estimate includes progressing through the theoretical modules, completing the interactive case studies, and independently drafting your final investigation reports. Please note that students with limited prior experience in WHS legislation or incident investigations may require additional time to complete the required readings and assessments.

Completion Timeframe: Because the program is self-paced, you can structure your study schedule around your work and personal commitments. However, students must complete all online modules and submit their final practical assessments within a maximum timeframe of up to six (6) weeks. This six-week completion period commences from the date you receive your online portal login credentials.

Prerequisites & Digital Requirements for Online Learning

ONLINE LEARNING REQUIREMENTS

The requirements for the online, self-paced course differ from the Face-to-Face and Zoom delivery modes.

GENERAL PREREQUISITES

There are no formal prerequisite qualifications required to register; however, participants must meet the following criteria:

• Age Requirement: Must be 18 years or older. OHSA does not provide training for individuals under 18.
• Hold a valid photo ID; students must provide photographic identification (e.g., driver’s licence).
• Language & Literacy: A minimum of Grade 10 literacy and English language proficiency is required to read legislation and type investigation reports.
• Visa Status: Students must not be on a student visa or be the partner of someone on a student visa.

COMPUTER & IT SKILL REQUIREMENTS

Computer literacy is required to complete this digital course. Students must have:

• Hardware & Internet: A desktop computer or laptop with an internet connection. Completing this course on a smartphone is not recommended.
• Software: Word Online or a desktop equivalent (e.g., Microsoft Word) is required to draft, format, and submit investigation reports.
• IT Skills: The ability to navigate online learning portals, download course materials, and upload completed assessment documents.

RECOMMENDED PRIOR LEARNING

While not mandatory, recommended prior experience includes:

• An ICAM Facilitator Basic Course
• Health and Safety Representative (HSR) formal qualifications
• Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety
• Vocational experience conducting workplace investigations

ONLINE ASSESSMENT REQUIREMENTS

Assessments are completed independently through the online portal to meet the requirements of the Nationally Recognised Units. These include:

• Written Theory Tasks: Questions covering WHS legislation and ICAM methodologies.
• Case Studies: Applying the PEEPO matrix and the Swiss Cheese Model to provide accident scenarios.
• Investigation Reports: Drafting and submitting simulated workplace incident reports via the online learning portal.

ENROLMENT & COURSE ACCESS

Access to the online portal is provided after the booking is processed. Students will receive an email containing unique login credentials and instructions for accessing the learning platform.

• Have questions about your digital enrolment? Contact our team for assistance.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (ONLINE COURSE)

• What is the ICAM Lead Incident Investigation Course? The ICAM Lead Incident Investigation Course provides training on the Incident Cause Analysis Method (ICAM). It covers how to conduct workplace investigations and identify root causes.
• Who should attend this course? This course is designed for WHS Officers, Supervisors, Safety Coordinators, Managers, HR, and Compliance Professionals working in high-risk industries, including construction, mining, rail, aviation, energy, and emergency services.
• Are there any prerequisites for the online course? There are no formal prerequisite qualifications. However, participants must be at least 18 years old, possess Grade 10 literacy and English proficiency, and have basic computer skills. Prior WHS experience or qualifications are recommended but not mandatory.
• How is the course delivered online? The course is delivered online and is self-paced. Students access digital modules, theoretical readings, and interactive case studies through the learning portal. There are no live Zoom sessions, group role-plays, or scheduled virtual classes.
• How long does the online ICAM Lead course take? The self-paced course takes approximately 15 to 20 hours to complete. All online modules and final assessments must be submitted within six (6) weeks of receiving login access to the portal.
• What assessments are included? Assessments are completed independently online and include written theory questions, case studies, and drafting simulated workplace incident investigation reports.
• What certification will I receive? Upon successful completion, students receive an ICAM Statement of Attendance and a Statement of Attainment for two nationally recognised units:

BSBWHS515 Lead Initial Response to and Investigate WHS Incidents
RIIWHS301E Conduct Safety and Health Investigations

• Can I complete the incident investigations from home? Yes, since the course is self-paced online, participants complete and submit all simulated incident investigation reports online independently.
• What technology do I need for the online course? Students require a desktop computer or laptop with a reliable internet connection. Access to Word Online or a desktop equivalent (e.g., Microsoft Word) is required to draft, format, and upload investigation reports.