1 Introduction
Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40
Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - Circulars - Maritime Safety Committee-Marine Environment Protection Committee Circulars - MSC-MEPC.7 Circulars - MSC-MEPC.7/Circular.7 – Guidance on Near-Miss Reporting – (10 October 2008) - Annex – Guidance on Near-Miss Reporting - 1 Introduction

1 Introduction

  1.1 Companies should investigate near-misses as a regulatory requirement under the “Hazardous Occurrences” part of the ISM Code. Aside from the fact that near-miss reporting is a requirement, it also makes good business and economic sense because it can improve vessel and crew performance and, in many cases, reduce costs. Investigating near-misses is an integral component of continuous improvement in safety management systems. This benefit can only be achieved when seafarers are assured that such reporting will not result in punitive measures. Learning the lessons from near-misses should help to improve safety performance since near-misses can share the same underlying causes as losses.

  1.2 For a company to realize the fullest potential benefits of near-miss reporting, seafarers and onshore employees need to understand the definition of a near-miss to ensure that all near-misses are reported. The company also needs to be clear about how the person who reports the near-miss and those persons involved will be treated. The guidance that follows suggests that the company should encourage near-miss reporting and investigation by adopting a “just culture” approach.

  1.3 A “just culture” features an atmosphere of responsible behaviour and trust whereby people are encouraged to provide essential safety-related information without fear of retribution. However, a distinction is drawn between acceptable and unacceptable behaviour. Unacceptable behaviour will not necessarily receive a guarantee that a person will not face consequences.

  1.4 It is a crucial requirement that the company clearly defines the circumstances in which it will guarantee a non-punitive outcome and confidentiality. The company should provide training and information about its approach to “just culture” near-miss reporting and investigation for all persons involved.

Parent topic: Annex – Guidance on Near-Miss Reporting
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