Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) Practice Test 2025 – All-in-One Study Guide for Exam Success!

The best practice of interviewing witnesses individually during an accident investigation is essential for obtaining accurate and unbiased information. When witnesses are interviewed alone, it allows them to share their observations and experiences without the influence or pressure of others. This one-on-one approach helps to ensure that each witness feels comfortable and free to express their thoughts, leading to more reliable testimony.

Interviews conducted in a private setting can promote frankness and honesty, as witnesses may be more willing to disclose information they might otherwise hold back in a group setting. In a group context, individuals might conform to the dominant narrative or be hesitant to contradict their peers, potentially leading to distorted accounts of the incident. Therefore, conducting individual interviews is crucial for gathering a comprehensive and truthful account of the events surrounding the accident.

Additionally, relying solely on written questionnaires may limit the depth of the information collected, as it does not allow for follow-up questions or clarifications that may be necessary to fully understand the witness's perspective. Similarly, conducting interviews in public could inhibit witnesses' willingness to speak freely, deterring them from disclosing sensitive information about what they saw or experienced. Thus, the approach of interviewing witnesses individually stands out as the most effective method in this context.