What does “near miss” reporting entail?

“Near miss” reporting refers to the process of recording incidents that had the potential to cause harm but ultimately did not result in any injury or damage. This practice is crucial in safety management as it helps organizations identify potential hazards and take preventive measures before actual incidents occur. By documenting these near misses, organizations can analyze trends, improve safety protocols, and foster a culture of safety awareness among employees.

In contrast, documenting minor injuries focuses on cases where harm was incurred, while only recording serious accidents does not capture the broader spectrum of events that could lead to injuries. Logging equipment malfunctions is also important, but it specifically pertains to mechanical issues rather than the potential for harm to personnel or property that a near miss encompasses. Thus, the core function of near miss reporting is to learn from situations that narrowly avoided causing harm, promoting proactive safety improvements.