What is the key purpose of identifying and reporting near misses?

Identifying and reporting near misses serves the key purpose of highlighting vulnerabilities in processes. Near misses are situations where an accident or incident could have occurred but did not, often due to chance or quick intervention. By analyzing these instances, organizations can uncover weaknesses in their operational processes and systems that may not be apparent when only looking at actual incidents. This proactive approach allows organizations to implement improvements and preventative measures, ultimately reducing the likelihood of future incidents.

Through the reporting and analysis of near misses, organizations can foster a culture of safety and continuous improvement, which can lead to a more resilient operational framework. This focus on vulnerabilities can also support the development of risk management strategies that are more effective, ensuring that potential issues are addressed before they result in harm to employees or the organization.