Onnettomuustutkintakeskus

Onnettomuustutkintakeskus (OTKES) is Finland's national authority responsible for accident investigation. It conducts independent investigations into serious accidents and incidents in Finland that have the potential to affect safety. Investigations aim to determine root causes and contributing factors and to issue safety recommendations to prevent recurrence. Investigations are non-punitive and the information gathered is used to improve safety rather than assign liability.

OTKES covers transport-related incidents across multiple modes, including aviation, rail, road, and maritime sectors, and may also examine other events with significant safety implications. It collects evidence on-site where possible, interviews witnesses, and analyzes data from various sources. The organization publishes investigation reports that present factual descriptions, risk factors, conclusions, and safety recommendations, with reports made publicly available.

OTKES operates as a government agency that conducts investigations independently of the organizations involved in the incidents. It collaborates with other national authorities such as law enforcement and regulators as needed and participates in international cooperation with other accident investigation bodies to share methods and findings.

The center's work supports safety improvement by informing regulatory changes, industry practices, and public awareness. It maintains appropriate confidentiality during investigations and ensures transparent dissemination of results to help prevent similar accidents in the future.