What is the proper process for reporting a near-miss incident?

What is the proper process for reporting a near-miss incident?

• A. Ignore near misses unless someone is hurt.
• B. Wait for end of shift to report.
• C. Only report if management requests.
• D. Immediately notify a supervisor, complete a near-miss report per iROC, and enter the incident into the tracking system.

Answer: (D)

Prompt and consistent reporting of near-miss incidents is essential for preventing injuries and equipment damage. The best approach is to immediately notify a supervisor, complete a near-miss report in iROC, and enter the incident into the tracking system. This sequence ensures the hazard is addressed quickly, the incident is documented with consistent details, and there is a formal record for monitoring and follow-up.

Immediate notification lets a supervisor assess risk right away and put temporary controls in place to prevent any harm. Completing a near-miss report in iROC standardizes what information is collected (what happened, where, when, contributing factors, people involved) so anyone reviewing the record can understand the scenario. Entering the incident into the tracking system creates a lasting record for trend analysis, root-cause investigations, and corrective actions, helping the organization prevent recurrence and improve overall safety.

Ignore near misses, wait for the end of a shift, or only report when management requests all miss the opportunity to fix hazards and protect people. Reporting early and through the proper system keeps safety visible and actionable.