ovv

OVV stands for Onderzoeksraad voor Veiligheid, the Netherlands’ independent safety investigation board. It operates as a government body charged with examining accidents and serious incidents in the country and, when appropriate, collaborating on international safety investigations. Its mandate centers on uncovering what happened, identifying underlying causes and contributing factors, and issuing recommendations to prevent recurrence. The OVV emphasizes learning from incidents and does not assign blame to individuals.

The organization conducts investigations across a broad range of safety domains, including transportation (air, rail, road), industry and process safety, public safety, and major disasters affecting the population. Investigations culminate in public reports that present factual findings, analysis of causes, conclusions, and practical safety recommendations directed at organizations, authorities, or sectors involved. In addition to individual investigations, the OVV produces safety assessments and keeps an overview of national safety developments through its publications.

As an independent body, the OVV operates without political direction and reports its work to government and Parliament. It is led by a president and a small board, with funding provided by the state. The organization engages with stakeholders, the public, and international partners, and it participates in networks of safety investigation authorities to share best practices and learn from global experience.

The OVV’s work aims to improve safety culture and practices across sectors. Its investigations have informed policy changes, industry standards, and preventive measures, contributing to risk reduction in the Netherlands. The board also promotes transparency by making its findings and recommendations publicly available.