What does the term 'near miss' refer to?

The term 'near miss' specifically refers to an event that could have resulted in injury or damage but did not actually cause harm. This concept is crucial in occupational health and safety as it highlights situations where potential hazards were present but did not lead to an incident. Recognizing near misses allows organizations to identify risks and implement preventive measures to avoid actual accidents in the future, thus improving overall safety.

Understanding near misses is essential for creating a culture of safety within the workplace, as they can serve as valuable lessons that inform safety protocols and training. By analyzing these occurrences, employers can strengthen their safety management systems and reduce the likelihood of more serious incidents happening in the future. This proactive approach to safety encourages continuous improvement and vigilance regarding workplace hazards.