What is the definition of a "near miss" in workplace safety?

A "near miss" is defined as an incident where no injury occurs but could have. This term is crucial in workplace safety as it highlights situations where potential harm existed, but due to various factors, such as luck or timely intervention, no one was injured. Identifying and analyzing near misses allows organizations to recognize hazards before they result in real accidents, fostering a proactive safety culture that aims to prevent future incidents.

This concept underscores the importance of reporting near misses—as they provide valuable data for safety improvements. It encourages workers to raise awareness and to act on safety protocols, ultimately leading to a reduction in actual injuries and accidents.