While our role at the TSB is to improve transportation safety, we understand how important it is for families, loved ones, and survivors to receive clear information as they navigate the aftermath of an accident.
In the initial days of an investigation, you may be contacted by an investigator from the TSB who conducts interviews with individuals who may have information regarding an occurrence. Information shared during these interviews is confidential and protected under the law.
Following the interview(s), you have the option to contact a Families, Loved Ones, and Survivors (FLS) Liaison, who can:
- arrange another interview with the investigator if you recall additional information relevant to the investigation;
- provide an update on the progress of the investigation when information can be shared; and
- answer general questions about the investigation process.
What happens during an investigation
A typical TSB investigation includes (see our investigation process for more information):
- Deployment: Investigators travel to the occurrence site to gather evidence.
- Evidence collection and analysis: Investigators examine wreckage, operational records, and other information to understand what happened.
- Interviews: Investigators speak with individuals who may have information about the occurrence.
- Report and safety action: The TSB publishes its findings and may make recommendations to improve transportation safety.
The TSB shares verified facts and updates on investigation progress where permitted. Please note that the Canadian Transportation Accident Investigation and Safety Board Act (CTAISB Act) has preestablished legal protections for certain information collected during an investigation. These protections help ensure that investigations remain independent and that findings are accurate and reliable and limit what information can be shared.
What the TSB’s role does not include
The CTAISB Act governs how we operate and the information we are allowed to share and certain responsibilities related to an occurrence are handled by other organizations.
The following are things we cannot do:
- Share privileged information
- Assist with insurance claims, civil suits, or other proceedings
- Offer psychological assistance
- Comment on an individual’s cause of death
- Provide information or details about an ongoing investigation that have not otherwise been provided to the public
- Comment on investigations conducted by other agencies
Mental health support resources
Experiencing or being affected by a transportation accident can be extremely difficult. Support services are available across Canada.
If you are in distress or need immediate support, you can:
- dial or text 9-8-8 to reach the Suicide Crisis Helpline, available across Canada 24 hours a day;
- visit Canada.ca/mental-health for a list of mental health support services available in your province or territory.
How to reach us
If you are a looking for more information on FLS communications or would like to get in touch, please contact FLS Liaison at 873-469-1900 or at FLS-FPS@bst-tsb.gc.ca.