steps, and considering the big picture of what possible remedial steps will need to be taken as a result of the investigation. Manufacturer Focus: It is especially critical not to rely on hearsay when investigating production floor incidents. Production employees have a tendency to gossip with each other, likely because they work in close proximity with each other in clusters and have frequent short spurts of downtime to fill. 5. Relevant Documents and Evidence Other than interviewing eyewitnesses, most investigations will require you to gather evidence. This can take many forms, such as an incriminating letter, email, or other communication, damaged property, a positive drug or alcohol test result, an electronic file, photos, audio or video files or other documentary, physical, or electronic matter that is relevant to the allegations and investigation. Collection and preservation of such evidence in an unadulterated state is critical to the investigation. You will also need to document and maintain chain of custody. Manufacturer Focus: You’ll face unique obstacles in obtaining documentary evidence in performing investigations of your manufacturing facilities. For example, although most facilities contain numerous surveillance cameras, the presence of heavy machinery and the sprawling footprint of a facility often make it difficult for manufacturers to obtain corroborating visual evidence. Plan ahead of time to minimize such concerns. 6. Documents To Memorialize the Investigation You should give serious consideration to how the investigation will be memorialized. Any documents created should explain the process, the facts discovered, and the conclusions reached. Witness statements or affidavits should be accurate and limited to only relevant information. When preparing these documents, always consider that documents may be subject to review by a government agency, plaintiff’s counsel as part of the discovery process in litigation, or even by a jury. Manufacturer Focus: Documentation in a manufacturing setting should include specific reference to any operational procedures or safety protocols under review. For example, if an investigation involves a machinery-related incident, the investigation documentation should include maintenance logs, machine operating procedures, and relevant safety audits. Properly memorializing these technical details can strengthen your defense in case of legal scrutiny. 7. Timeliness Once you are aware of possible misconduct or violations of company policy, your investigation should be commenced without delay. The investigation should then proceed as swiftly as possible under the circumstances – but not be rushed. You need to take enough time so that all the facts can be gathered and analyzed completely. It is also imperative to determine whether any type of interim action is needed to prevent ongoing violations. For example, you may need to consider placing the accused on leave if there are threats
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