What term is used to describe an event that almost resulted in injury or fatality?

The term that describes an event that almost resulted in injury or fatality is commonly known as a near miss. A near miss indicates that although there was a potential for harm or a serious incident, no injury or damage actually occurred. This concept is crucial in safety practices and incident reporting, as analyzing near misses can help organizations understand risks and implement preventive measures to avoid future occurrences.

Understanding the context of a near miss is important for fostering a culture of safety and encouraging reporting among personnel. Recognizing these incidents can lead to enhanced training and improvements in procedures to mitigate potential hazards before they lead to actual harm.

In contrast, while a serious incident indicates an actual event that resulted in injury or damage, a critical failure refers to a significant breakdown in safety or operational processes. A close call may also imply an event with potential danger, but the term "near miss" is more widely recognized and emphasized in safety protocols for its specific connotation of avoiding injury or damage.