What is Near Miss

Last updated: 2025-01-22
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Definition of Near Miss

A near miss is a negative work-related event that could have resulted in injury to health or damage to property. A near miss is an indicator of a potentially serious problem. It is possible that something is being used in the wrong way, that the workflow or technology is set up incorrectly. For example, a near miss can occur:

  • improper workplace equipment
  • improperly used or inappropriate technology
  • insufficient or incorrect training
  • by not following the work procedure
  • failure of equipment or workplace equipment

A near miss is not regulated in detail by any legal regulation or standard. They can be caused by accident or caused by a system defect. In such a case, the organization should propose measures that should prevent further repetition.

Examples and Types of Near Misses

  • Slip or trip without injury
  • Device failure
  • Catching the loose clothing of the machine worker, without injury to the worker
  • Dropping the device from a shelf or rack
  • A collision between two forklifts without damage or injury

How to report a near miss

Employees can report near misses electronically using a form available at the employee help desk. A simple leave request form is used to report an early accident. Both the employee and the manager can view all reported near misses, which are then reviewed and resolved.

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