Question

Why is the investigation of near-misses important although they do not cause any damage or
injury?

Answer 1

What is a Near Miss?

A Near Miss is an unplanned event that did not result in injury, illness, or damage – but had the potential to do so. Only a fortunate break in the chain of events prevented an injury, fatality or damage; in other words, a miss that was nonetheless very near. A faulty process or management system invariably is the root cause for the increased risk that leads to the near miss and should be the focus of improvement.

Investigation of near misses important because

Recognizing and reporting near miss incidents can significantly improve worker safety and enhance an organization’s safety culture. Near miss incidents often precede loss producing events but may be overlooked as there was no harm (no injury, damage or loss). History has shown repeatedly that most loss producing events (incidents), both serious and catastrophic, were preceded by warnings or near miss incidents.

In the near miss incident investigation organizations loof for what did happen and what could have happened. Just like actual problems, near-misses also have a magnitude or severity. Some organizations refer to more significant near-miss injuries as High Potential. These naturally will get more attention because of the risk.