What is defined as a “near miss” in laboratory safety?

A "near miss" in laboratory safety refers to an event that could have resulted in injury or harm but ultimately did not. This definition is crucial because near misses serve as important indicators for potential hazards in the laboratory environment. By analyzing these incidents, safety protocols can be improved to prevent future accidents. Understanding what constitutes a near miss allows researchers and safety personnel to address and mitigate risks before they escalate into actual accidents.

In contrast, accidents that result in injury signify that harm has already occurred, while minor incidents causing no damage do not typically reflect the potential hazards that near misses do. A situation requiring immediate action relates to urgent safety threats but does not specifically describe an incident that narrowly avoided causing harm. Thus, recognizing near misses hinges on their proactive nature, enabling a focus on prevention and enhancing overall laboratory safety.