Investigation Process

Who is Involved in a TSB Investigation

Many individuals and groups cooperate with the TSB in fulfilling its mandate. During an investigation, the TSB works with all levels of government, transportation companies, equipment manufacturers, and individuals such as survivors, witnesses, next of kin and operators. The TSB also works with coroners and medical examiners, police, fire departments and search-and-rescue teams. Cooperation is essential in order for the TSB to carry out its functions.

Survivors and Next of Kin

When fatalities occur, the police, coroner/medical examiner, or transportation company will inform the next of kin. The TSB keeps survivors and next of kin informed at various stages of the investigation and may request interviews with them to assist in the investigation.

Witnesses and Others with Knowledge Related to the Occurrence

TSB investigators conduct interviews with anyone who may be able to assist them with their investigation. If you are asked to provide information, you may wish to be accompanied by a family member, union representative, lawyer, friend or another person of your choice.

Interview summaries, transcripts and recordings are kept on file by the TSB. If you wish, you may request a copy of your interview. The statements in your interview are protected under the Canadian Transportation Accident Investigation and Safety Board Act, the Access to Information Act, and the Privacy Act. Names do not appear in the Board's report.

Observers

The Board may grant observer status to persons who, in its opinion, have a direct interest in the subject matter of the investigation and can potentially contribute to the advancement of transportation safety. In this regard, representatives from transportation companies, equipment manufacturers and regulatory agencies often attend investigations under the supervision of an investigator and in accordance with the conditions imposed by the Board.

Designated Reviewers

The Board designates reviewers based on such considerations as their ability to comment on the technical accuracy of the report and whether their interests may be affected by the report. Designated Reviewers are encouraged to concentrate on the areas of the report that are related to their area of involvement and expertise.

If an individual or a corporation named as a Designated Reviewer by the Board elects to be represented by another party, for example a lawyer or a family member, the Designated Reviewer must submit a request in writing to the Board for its approval. Once the request is approved, all further correspondence from the Board will be sent to the authorized representative.

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