What is a near miss?

A near miss is defined as an incident that could have resulted in injury or damage but did not actually lead to any harm. This concept is crucial in safety practices because it highlights situations where unsafe conditions or behaviors nearly resulted in accidents. Understanding near misses allows organizations to identify potential hazards before they cause actual injuries or damage, thereby implementing preventive measures. By maintaining awareness of these incidents, workplaces can enhance safety protocols and reduce the risk of future accidents.

The other options provide different perspectives on incidents. A minor injury, while concerning, represents an actual occurrence of harm rather than a near miss. A major accident that causes significant damage goes well beyond a near miss, reflecting a situation where harm has already occurred. Lastly, an event that does not involve any risk whatsoever would not be categorized as a near miss since it implies no potential for injury or damage at all. The focus on near misses emphasizes the importance of proactive safety measures and learning from close calls to prevent future incidents.