A near miss is a work-related incident that could have led to injury or property damage but did not. It serves as a warning sign of a potentially serious issue. This could be due to improper use of equipment, incorrect workflow setup, or technology misuse. For example, a near miss can occur due to:
- inappropriate workplace equipment
- misused or unsuitable technology
- lack of proper training
- not adhering to work procedures
- equipment or machinery failure
Near misses are not specifically regulated by any laws or standards. They may occur accidentally or due to a system flaw. In these instances, the organization should implement measures to prevent future occurrences.
Common Near Misses in Small and Medium-Sized Businesses
- Slipping or tripping without injury
- Equipment malfunction
- Clothing getting caught in machinery without injuring the worker
- Dropping an item from a shelf or rack
- Forklift collisions without causing damage or injury
How to Report a Near Miss?
Employees can report near misses online using a form available at the employee support center. A dedicated incident report form is used to document a near miss. Both the employee and their supervisor can access all reported near misses, which are then reviewed and addressed.