At SECURA Insurance, we believe that safety isn’t just about reacting to incidents; it’s about preventing them. One of the most overlooked tools in a company’s safety toolbox is the near miss report. These “almost accidents” might not cause harm, but they offer a golden opportunity to learn, improve, and protect your team.
What is a near miss?
A near miss is an unplanned event that didn’t result in injury, illness, or damage—but could have. Think of a worker slipping on a wet floor but catching themselves, or a piece of equipment malfunctioning without causing harm. These moments are easy to brush off, but they’re actually early warning signs that something in your safety system needs attention.
Why it pays to report near misses
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), near misses are valuable indicators of hidden hazards. When you report and investigate them, you’re not just checking a box — you’re actively preventing future incidents.
Here’s how near miss reporting supports a well-rounded safety program:
- Spot trends before they become problems
- Repeated near misses in the same area or involving the same task can reveal patterns that need fixing
- Strengthen your safety culture
- When employees know their observations matter, they’re more likely to speak up and stay engaged
- Reduce injuries and illnesses
- By addressing risks early, you can prevent serious incidents from ever happening
From reactive to proactive: a better way to manage risk
OSHA encourages employers to treat near misses as part of a broader incident investigation strategy. Instead of asking “Who messed up?” the focus shifts to “What went wrong, and how can we fix it?” This approach builds trust and encourages open communication.
It also aligns with one SECURA’s goals: to protect people and property through proactive risk management. Whether it’s a farm, a nonprofit, or a small business, we help our policyholders create safer environments by identifying risks before they escalate.
The power of trend tracking
One of the most compelling reasons to report near misses is the ability to track and analyze data. OSHA’s research shows that for every serious injury, there are dozens of minor injuries and hundreds of near misses. That means each near miss is a chance to prevent something worse[3].
By collecting and reviewing near miss reports, businesses can:
- Prioritize safety improvements
- Allocate resources more effectively
- Make informed decisions that protect employees and operations
Building a culture of safety starts with listening
Creating a workplace where near misses are reported—and valued—requires a shift in mindset. Employees need to feel safe reporting issues without fear of blame. Managers need to respond with action, not punishment. And leadership needs to champion safety as a shared responsibility.
At SECURA, we support businesses with tools, training, and resources to build that kind of culture. Because when safety is part of your everyday conversation, everyone benefits.
Key takeaway
Near misses are more than lucky breaks, they’re learning opportunities. By encouraging your team to report them, you’re investing in a safer, healthier future for your business.
Want help building a proactive safety program? Reach out to your SECURA risk management consultant or explore our risk management resources.
References and additional sources