Category: Risk identification & assessment · Reviewed by Simon Temme, Account Executive · Last reviewed
Root cause analysis
Root cause analysis (RCA) is a structured method for identifying the underlying cause(s) of an incident, defect or near-miss, rather than treating its visible symptoms. It is typically a retrospective technique applied after an event has occurred, in contrast to forward-looking techniques like FMEA or HAZOP.
Common techniques
Five Whys — repeated “why?” questioning to peel back layers of causation.
Fishbone (Ishikawa) diagram — categorising contributing causes under headings such as People, Process, Equipment, Environment, Materials, Management.
Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) — top-down deductive logic mapping with AND/OR gates.
Event Tree Analysis (ETA) — forward-looking from an initiating event through success/failure of barriers.
Cause-and-effect mapping — broader investigation tying multiple causes to outcomes.
TapRooT, ECFA, MORT — proprietary RCA systems used in major industries.
Levels of cause
A disciplined RCA distinguishes:
Immediate cause — the direct, proximate trigger (e.g. operator pressed the wrong button).
Underlying cause — the conditions that allowed the immediate cause (e.g. inadequate training).
Root cause — the systemic factor (e.g. no formal competency assurance regime).
Action plans targeting only the immediate cause produce recurrence.
Insurance and claims context
RCA is a standard component of large-loss claims investigation, particularly in marine, aviation, energy and product liability claims. Loss adjusters’ RCA reports often determine coverage outcomes under specified perils policies and subrogation strategy.
References
IEC 31010:2019, Annex B.16.
HSE HSG48 — Reducing error and influencing behaviour.
US Department of Energy (1992, revised). Root Cause Analysis Guidance Document.
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