Answer
An increase in reported near misses is usually a sign of a healthier safety culture rather than an actual increase in unsafe events. Primary causes include:
- Enhanced Safety Culture & Awareness: A recent onboard safety campaign, toolbox talk emphasis, or company initiative encouraging open reporting without fear of reprisal (Just Culture).
- Change in Shipboard Leadership: A new Master or Chief Engineer who actively encouraged crew participation and made reporting easy and accessible.
- External Audits or Inspections: A recent Port State Control (PSC), Vetting (SIRE 2.0), or ISM internal audit highlighting the need for proactive hazard identification.
- High Operational Intensity: Increased workload, fatigue, or frequent port calls during that specific month, exposing crew to more potential hazardous situations.
- Digital Reporting Tools: Introduction of user-friendly reporting systems (e.g., tablet apps or simplified forms) lowering the barrier to submission.
- KPI Driving: Office management imposing mandatory quotas for near-miss reports per month.