What principle does the accident pyramid emphasize?

The accident pyramid emphasizes that a small number of serious incidents are often preceded by a much larger number of minor incidents. This concept is crucial in understanding workplace safety and risk management. The idea is that for every major accident or serious injury that occurs, there are numerous near misses or minor incidents that can serve as warnings or indicators of potential hazards. By focusing on addressing these minor incidents, organizations can create a safer working environment and potentially prevent the occurrence of more severe accidents.

This principle illustrates the importance of proactive safety measures and encourages stakeholders to investigate and analyze minor incidents to identify underlying issues. By doing so, organizations can implement improvements that may reduce the risk of serious injuries or fatalities in the future. It underscores the notion that safety is a cumulative process, where small, consistent improvements can lead to significant reductions in the likelihood of severe accidents.