Which of the following best describes what is meant by "basic causes" in incident investigation?

The concept of "basic causes" in incident investigation refers to underlying issues that contribute to incidents. These are the root factors that create the conditions for an incident to occur, rather than the immediate actions or errors that may trigger the event. Identifying basic causes is crucial in developing effective prevention strategies, as it allows organizations to address systemic issues rather than merely focusing on the surface-level symptoms of incidents.

By understanding these underlying issues—such as inadequate training, poor safety culture, ineffective supervision, or flaws in management systems—organizations can implement long-term changes that improve safety and reduce the likelihood of future incidents. This approach moves beyond simply addressing immediate factors and instead seeks to foster a safer working environment by addressing foundational weaknesses.