Dorothy Bain KC

The Work-Related Deaths Protocol aims to make investigations in these cases better and faster by improving communication.

Eight organisations have signed the protocol: the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, Police Scotland, the Health and Safety Executive, the Office of Rail and Road, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, the Office for Nuclear Regulation, British Transport Police and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

The agreement draws on lessons learned from major incidents such as the Stonehaven rail crash and the sinking of the fishing vessel Nancy Glen.

It sets out a framework for closer and more effective working between agencies based on common goals in the investigation, prosecution and preparation of fatal accident inquiries for work-related deaths.

There is a focus on investigating agencies conducting their inquiries in parallel, with different agencies either leading or jointly investigating the various lines of enquiry with mechanisms to manage journey times for the investigation and the sharing of information.

Ms Bain said: “The effective investigation of work-related deaths requires the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service to work closely with many partner agencies in a complex investigatory and regulatory landscape.

“I am confident that the introduction of this new protocol will transform the way we work together.” 

Richard Hines, ORR’s HM Chief Inspector of Railways, said: “As a signatory to Scotland’s updated Work-related Deaths Protocol, the Office of Rail and Road recognises the importance of an agreed approach to the joint investigation of deaths within the workplace.

“We are committed to effective communication and sharing best practice with investigative authorities to ensure the high standards set out by the protocol are met.”