What defines a near miss in workplace safety?

A near miss in workplace safety is defined as a situation where an incident could have occurred but did not result in any damage or injury. This distinction is critical because it highlights potential hazards that need to be addressed before they escalate into actual accidents. Recognizing and reporting near misses can help organizations implement preventative measures to enhance safety, thereby minimizing risks in the workplace.

Understanding near misses is essential for proactive safety management. They serve as valuable learning opportunities that can inform training, policies, and procedures to ensure that similar situations do not result in negative outcomes in the future. This focus on prevention is vital to fostering a safer work environment, reinforcing the importance of vigilance even when no harm occurs.