Considering the assessment of survivability and preventability following mass fatality incidents: Where are we and where do we need to go?

Abstract

Following a mass fatality incident, the assessment of survivability and preventability is essential, yet current methodologies remain inconsistent both within the UK and internationally. The 2024 UK Home Office report 'The Patronising Disposition of Unaccountable Power: Independent Review of Forensic Pathology' evaluated learning from the Hillsborough disaster and the Manchester Arena bombing inquests, highlighting the urgent need for clearer, standardised processes in determining survivability and preventability. This paper critically reviews existing techniques in use to address the question of survivability and preventability and makes recommendations for a national best practice framework to improve this process for future inquiries.