Role and function

In Finland the Accident Investigation Board investigates all major accidents regardless of their nature as well as all aviation, maritime and rail accidents and their incidents.

The purpose of the investigation of accidents is to improve safety and prevent future accidents. The flow of events during the accident, its causes and results as well as the rescue operation are dealt with in the investigation. A report is prepared on the results of the investigation. The report also presents the recommendations, which are based on the conclusions of the investigation. All reports are written in finnish with english summaries. An english version is prepared from important reports.

In addition the Accident Investigation Board takes care of the readiness to conduct investigations and of the development of accident investigation methods. The training of investigators, the preparation of guidelines for the process of investigation, publication of the reports and international cooperation are handled by the Board. In Finland the Accident Investigation Board is located within the Ministry of Justice.