Reviewed and updated July 2026. Statistics reflect HSE’s 2024/25 ill-health and injury data.
Across all industries, near misses are often overlooked, yet they are critical indicators of potential hazards. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) emphasises the importance of reporting and investigating near misses, aligning with the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 19742 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 19993.
The hidden cost of unreported near misses
In 2024/25, an estimated 1.9 million workers in Great Britain suffered from work-related ill health, and 680,000 workers sustained a non-fatal injury at work4. These figures likely underestimate the true scale of the problem, as near misses often go unreported. Without proper reporting and analysis, these incidents may escalate into more serious accidents.
The legal imperative for reporting dangerous occurrences
Under RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations), specific dangerous occurrences that have high potential to cause death or serious injury must be reported to the HSE5. While most routine near misses are not reportable under RIDDOR, failing to report legally required dangerous occurrences not only jeopardises worker safety but also exposes employers to legal risks, including potential fines and reputational damage. Additionally, companies should implement robust internal near miss reporting systems to capture learning opportunities that fall outside RIDDOR requirements5.
Transforming near misses into safety improvements
To leverage near misses as tools for enhancing safety, employers should:
Implement a clear reporting system
Establish straightforward procedures for workers to report near misses without fear of reprisal. This encourages a culture of openness and proactive safety management1.
Regularly analyse reported incidents
Conduct thorough investigations to identify root causes and implement corrective actions. This helps in understanding underlying issues and preventing recurrence1.
Engage workers in safety discussions
Involve employees in safety meetings and discussions to gather insights and foster a collective responsibility for safety1.
Provide training on hazard recognition
Equip workers with the skills to identify potential hazards and understand the importance of reporting near misses1.
The role of leadership in safety culture
Strong leadership is essential in cultivating a safety-conscious culture. The HSE highlights that effective leadership can lead to significant improvements in safety performance. For example, British Sugar reduced its lost time and minor injury frequency rates by two-thirds over a decade through committed leadership and a focus on safety6.
Near misses are not mere coincidences; they are critical learning opportunities. By fostering an environment where near misses are reported and analysed, companies can transform these incidents into valuable lessons that enhance safety and prevent future accidents. Adhering to legal obligations and proactively addressing near misses ensures compliance while demonstrating a commitment to the health and well-being of all workers.
Please note: This blog provides general health and safety guidance for UK workplaces. Following these steps does not guarantee legal compliance. To conduct a full health and safety self-assessment today, use our Health & Safety 360° Guide 2026/2027.
References
1 Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Near-miss Book
2 Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974
3 The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
4 Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Key figures for Great Britain
6 Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Leadership of health and safety at work: case studies
