After an accident at work ( RIDDOR) the injured person suffered a traumatic injury. And will be off work for many months. I have begun the investigation however he says that he can not be interviewed at this time because remembering the incident makes him very anxious/stressed and he has to keep calm to aid his recovery. I therefore felt that I could not knowingly expose him to harm. I have informed HSE and they too are not interviewing just yet, but will be sending out a letter asking the injured person to contact them for an interview. Obviously his statement plays a key part in the investigation The incident happened 9/07/15 What should I do and when ? Do I need to ask for medical proof that this would be too stressful At this time we are trying to maintain a supportive role and I do think that he is genuine . If not now when should I insist . Two months ? How long should I leave it before inviting him to meet on a neutral site, with a relative to support him? What if he starts to become agitated in the meeting ? Do I stop and try again another day? I would appreciate some feedback from anybody who has interviewed an injured person presenting in this way and what they have done?? Please help if you can - normally I just interview people and this has thrown me :) Thanks - first time posting !

Tough situation. You have my sympathy. I'm sure that you've already considered how far you can progress the investigation in the absence of a statement from the IP. Best case there are other witnesses who can help you to understand what happened. Otherwise perhaps worth considering whether it's possible for the IP to offer a statement with no requirement for an actual face to face interview at this stage? Perhaps the IP would be amenable to answering a list of q's presented in writing?

Are you clear about what caused the accident or is it one of those where there are conflicting stories/information and you need his input for clarification? I would suggest the importance of his input would depend upon your confidence that you thus far have enough to be sure you can prevent a re occurrence. Regards

Good posts from all above. I suppose you are "stuck" for the time being on their statement being produced - but follow the advice. I would also in the absence of the injured parties statement make sure you have closed off all other factors involved in the accident. For example we are not in a position to say that it was the injured parties fault, or contributed significantly to the outcome. So, I would make sure all other factors are tested and recorded - just in case. Do all the e-stops, interlocks, environmental factors, 3rd party statements etc add up. If not, then take action to make sure they do. You don't want a reccurance happening whilst still waiting for a statement, because you assumed the guard (or whatever) was ok.

I suppose you could wait until the HSE interview him and either ask to be present or for a copy of the interview. Meanwhile, there is nothing stopping you collecting all the available evidence including witness statements, etc.

You may be leaving yourself open to a compensation claim if you pursue the IP. He is obviously very traumatised and may be suffering post traumatic stress. If That is the case he needs to be seen by a specialist who may be able to aid his recovery. I suggest you back off completely and as suggested do what you need to as part of the back to work interview.