A board of inquiry, also commonly known as an inquiry board or a fact-finding board, is a formal body established to investigate and examine specific incidents or issues. It is typically composed of a group of knowledgeable and impartial individuals with expertise relevant to the subject at hand, such as legal, technical, or subject matter experts. The purpose of a board of inquiry is to gather facts, review evidence, and make impartial determinations or recommendations based on their findings.
These boards are often established by government entities, military organizations, corporations, or other governing bodies to conduct official investigations into matters that require a thorough examination. Common events that might prompt the creation of a board of inquiry include accidents, disasters, misconduct allegations, or policy violations.
The board of inquiry operates with a structured and formalized process, which includes various investigative techniques such as interviews, document analysis, site visits, and sometimes public hearings or testimonies. The board carefully gathers evidence, evaluates witness statements, and studies relevant documents to reach informed conclusions. Its findings are typically documented in a detailed report or a series of recommendations, which serve as a basis for decision-making, policy changes, legal proceedings, or further investigative actions.
The board of inquiry operates independently from any involved parties or vested interests, aiming to ensure fairness, transparency, and impartiality throughout the investigation process. It seeks to uncover the truth, determine accountability, and provide valuable insights that can guide subsequent actions or prevent similar incidents in the future.
