What does the term "near miss" refer to?

The term "near miss" specifically refers to an unplanned event that nearly resulted in injury, damage, or loss but ultimately did not lead to any negative outcome. This concept is crucial in safety management, as it helps organizations identify potential hazards that could lead to more severe accidents in the future. By analyzing near misses, safety supervisors can implement changes to prevent actual incidents, improving overall safety protocols.

In contrast, an incident causing significant injury involves actual harm and does not fit the definition of a "near miss." A planned exercise with no casualties indicates a controlled situation where risks are managed and mitigated, which doesn't align with the spontaneous nature of a near miss. Redundant safety procedures, while important in overall safety systems, do not directly relate to incidents that were narrowly avoided and, therefore, do not define the term "near miss." Understanding this term is vital for maintaining a proactive safety culture.