What are unplanned and uncontrolled events resulting from unsafe acts known as?

Unplanned and uncontrolled events resulting from unsafe acts are referred to as accidents. This definition highlights that these occurrences happen unexpectedly and often lead to damage or injury due to a failure in following safe practices. Accidents are typically the result of a combination of unsafe acts and conditions that can lead to a range of outcomes, from minor injuries to major incidents with significant harm.

In contrast, incidents encompass a broader category that can include both accidents and other instances where safety protocols may have been breached, but not all of which result in harm. Hazards refer to potential sources of harm or adverse effects, but they do not indicate that an event has occurred. Risk factors are elements that increase the likelihood of an accident or incident happening, rather than describing the event itself. Understanding this distinction is vital for effective risk management and safety training within fire service operations.