UNDERSTAND THE CONCEPT
Lagging indicators describe outcomes that have already occurred, such as injuries or incidents. Leading indicators examine preventive activity and conditions that may reveal weaknesses before harm occurs. Both are useful, but neither is self-explanatory. Counting completed inspections says little about their quality, while a period without injuries may be too short or too small to support a confident conclusion.
Choose measures tied to a question that management can act on. For example, track whether important findings receive effective follow-up rather than only how many forms were submitted. Define the population, reporting period, and data owner so comparisons remain meaningful. Discuss unexpected changes with the people doing the work. Avoid incentives that discourage reporting or reward superficial completion. A balanced review combines numbers, evidence samples, worker feedback, and judgment about the site's actual hazards.
Questions to take back to your team
- Which management decision will this indicator inform?
- Could the measure unintentionally discourage reporting?
- What qualitative evidence explains the trend?
Awareness guide only. Follow applicable requirements, qualified review and your site’s approved procedures. Reading this page does not authorize work or certify competence.
Further reading
Explore the primary references below. Requirements and applicability depend on your organization and jurisdiction.
