Who determines the depth of investigative effort required for each mishap?

The depth of investigative effort required for each mishap is determined by the convening authority. This individual holds the responsibility for overseeing the investigation and has the necessary authority to assess the situation, gather necessary information, and allocate resources appropriately. They take into account various factors, including the severity of the mishap, potential impacts on safety, and insights from other personnel involved in the incident.

The role of the convening authority is critical in ensuring that investigations are conducted efficiently and effectively, so that lessons can be learned and corrective actions can be implemented, preventing similar incidents in the future. Their decision-making is pivotal in balancing thoroughness with the practical limitations of time and resources.

Other roles, while essential to the investigation process, do not have the authority to set the depth of investigative effort. For example, safety officers often provide recommendations and insights based on safety regulations and protocols, but they do not have the final say in the investigative scope. Similarly, the unit commander oversees the overall operation but delegates specific investigation details to the convening authority. The investigation team conducts the investigation based on the parameters set by the convening authority, but it is the authority that establishes those parameters.