What is considered a near-miss?

A near-miss is defined as something that did not happen but had the potential to result in an incident or accident. This concept is critical in risk management and safety protocols, as it allows organizations to identify and address hazards before they lead to actual incidents. Recognizing a near-miss provides valuable insights for improving safety measures and preventing future occurrences. By analyzing these situations, organizations can develop preventative strategies, enhance training, and modify processes to mitigate risks.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the essence of a near-miss. A successful incident without impact suggests that an event occurred but did not result in negative consequences, which is different from a near-miss that involves potential danger. A documented accident would imply that an actual incident occurred, and an event with positive outcomes does not relate to the risk or hazard aspect of near-misses. Therefore, identifying a near-miss is fundamental for proactive safety management.