What does "near miss" mean in safety terms?

The term "near miss" in safety terminology refers to an incident where no injury or damage occurred, but there was a potential for it to happen. This definition highlights the importance of recognizing situations that could lead to accidents or injuries if circumstances were slightly different. Identifying near misses allows organizations to implement preventive measures and improve safety protocols, as it provides an opportunity to address hazards before they result in actual harm.

In contrast, the other options represent different types of incidents. An incident with visible injury suggests that harm has already occurred, which deviates from the definition of a near miss. Events resulting in minor injuries also indicate that there was actual harm, not just potential harm. Likewise, accidents that caused property damage imply real consequences from an incident, which again does not align with the concept of a near miss, where no actual injury or damage took place. Understanding near misses is crucial for fostering a proactive safety culture and preventing future incidents.