Definition(s)
Causal Factor(s)
Typically, a causal factor is defined as any issue or element associated with the incident that, if corrected, could have prevented the incident from occurring or would have significantly mitigated its consequences. It could also be a barrier or safeguard that was either not in place or was in place, but was ineffective at preventing the incident. Note: TapRooT® The System for Root Cause Analysis, Problem Investigation and Proactive Improvement, 2000, Mark Paradies and Linda Unger, Chapter 3, pg. 45.
Incident Reporting and Investigation Guidelines, The Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Board and Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board, Canada, November 30, 2012. Regulatory Guidance