Why is it important to report near-misses in the workplace?

Reporting near-misses in the workplace is crucial because it helps identify hazards that could lead to future accidents. By documenting these incidents, organizations can analyze the circumstances that allowed the near-miss to occur, enabling them to implement safety measures before an actual accident happens. This proactive approach fosters a safer work environment, ultimately protecting employees from harm and reducing potential liability for the organization.

While notifying employees of all accidents, documenting incidents for legal purposes, or assigning blame to individuals might be relevant in certain contexts, focusing on preventing future accidents through the identification of hazards is the primary objective behind reporting near-misses. This emphasis on prevention promotes a culture of safety and continuous improvement within the workplace.