You don't need a disaster for an investigation to drive improvement

Anyone that has watched a 12-year-old handed a “free hit” in a game of cricket would know the look of unbridled joy knowing that they can play the next shot without fear of getting out. In business, the opportunity to learn from a low or no impact workplace incident should be met with similar excitement.

Many businesses wait until a major incident occurs before conducting an in-depth investigation. However, root cause investigations don’t have to be reserved for disasters. In fact, investigating near misses or high potential incidents can generate the same benefits as a significant incident investigation—and sometimes, it can even prevent a disaster from happening.

Here’s why investigating near misses is critical:

📈Root Cause Analysis for Continuous Improvement

Just as with major incidents, conducting a root cause analysis on near misses or high potential incidents can uncover underlying issues that, if left unaddressed, could lead to larger incidents. These investigations highlight systemic issues, process gaps, or training deficiencies, leading to improvements that enhance both safety and efficiency across the business.

💰Cost-Effective and Preventive Action

Investigating a near miss costs far less than managing the fallout of a major incident. By identifying risks or failed controls early, businesses can implement preventive measures that save time, money, and resources in the long term.

🛡️Building a Safety-First Culture

Investigating smaller incidents fosters a culture of safety. It shows employees that the business is committed to preventing issues before they happen. This proactive approach not only boosts employee morale but also encourages a culture where employees feel safe reporting hazards and near misses, knowing they’ll be taken seriously.

⚖️Regulatory and Compliance Benefits

Many industries are heavily regulated, and the ability to demonstrate a proactive risk management system can help businesses align with safety standards such as ISO 45001. Investigating near misses and hazards positions your business as a leader in safety, avoiding costly fines and penalties.

Your business doesn’t need a disaster to learn and improve. By treating incidents as an opportunity for business learning and growth, you can build a resilient, proactive business that continuously evolves.

Talk with us today to learn about how ⚡Virtus Advisory⚡ can help you get started.