What is a near-miss? A near-miss is an event or situation that had the potential to (but did not) result in an injury. Examples would be; tripping or falling over cluttered walkways, almost being struck by objects or being struck without injury, or a too close for comfort equipment event. In all reality, a near-miss is an injury that did not happen.
Near-misses are free safety lessons. An injury, on the other hand, is a lesson that the injured employee paid for with loss time and medical treatment. We cannot obtain this priceless, free safety lesson if the near-misses are not reported. Report all near-misses, regardless of how minute it may seem. By doing this, action can be taken to prevent a simple near-miss from becoming an injury.
How do I report a near-miss? If the near-miss involves equipment failure or immediate danger to others, let your supervisor know as soon as possible. By doing this the exposure that caused the near-miss can be dealt with immediately.
The longer you wait, the more others are exposed to the same risk. The bottom line is that this is much-needed information. Armed with this information, all workplaces have a better chance of preventing injuries.
Do your part in accident prevention. Turning in a near-miss is something everyone can do. Safety is everyone’s responsibility!
KEMI does not assume liability for the content of information contained herein. Safety and health remain your responsibility. This information is to be used for informational purposes only and not intended to be exhaustive or a substitute for proper training, supervision or manufacturers’ instructions/recommendations. KEMI, by publication of this information, does not assume liability for damage or injury arising from reliance upon it. Compliance with this information is not a guarantee or warranty that you will be in conformity with any laws or regulations nor does it ensure the absolute safety of any person, place or object, including, but not limited to, you, your occupation, employees, customers or place of business.
