What is a “near miss” in terms of process safety?

A “near miss” in terms of process safety is defined as an event that could have resulted in an incident but did not. This concept is crucial in safety management because it highlights situations where an accident was narrowly avoided and can serve as a learning opportunity to strengthen safety practices. Analyzing near misses allows organizations to identify potential hazards and implement preventative measures before a real accident occurs.

Recognizing and reporting near misses can lead to improved safety protocols, as it encourages a culture of transparency and vigilance among employees. By focusing on these incidents, companies can make enhancements to their processes and reduce the likelihood of future incidents. This approach ultimately contributes to a safer working environment and helps in building a proactive safety management system.