Procedural and methodological differences between compliance control and investigation of severe and fatal workplace accidents in the occupational safety system of the Republic of Moldova

The occupational safety and health system in the Republic of Moldova faces a significant discontinuity between compliance control and the investigation of workplace accidents. While compliance control relies on clear procedures, standardized indicators, and objective evaluation tools, the investigation of serious and fatal accidents remains poorly regulated, lacking uniform methodologies - undermining the effectiveness of the process. This article critically examines these differences through a research process structured in analytical stages such as separate and comparative examination, evaluation and assessment of results, followed by the formulation of conclusions. General research methods (observation, induction, deduction, analysis, synthesis) and scientific methods (synthetic, axiomatic, and systemic) are applied, highlighting the need for procedural coherence and alignment between findings and preventive measures. In the absence of clear standards, accident investigation risks becoming a formal exercise with little real impact on prevention. The article's main conclusion is that reforming the regulatory framework - particularly Government Decision No. 1361/2005 - is essential to improve the efficiency of investigations and ensure effective prevention of occupational risks.