What are lagging indicators in HSE performance measurement?

Lagging indicators in Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) performance measurement focus on outcomes that have already occurred, providing a historical perspective on safety performance. These indicators typically include metrics such as the number of workplace accidents, injuries, illnesses, and incidents that have happened over a set period. By analyzing lagging indicators, organizations can assess the effectiveness of their existing health and safety programs and identify areas that may require improvement.

In contrast, proactive measures that predict potential future performance are the hallmark of leading indicators, which aim to prevent incidents before they occur. Financial metrics generally assess the cost implications of safety measures rather than direct measures of safety performance. Additionally, training progress assessments evaluate the effectiveness of safety training initiatives rather than the actual performance outcomes related to health and safety incidents. Therefore, the focus of lagging indicators on historical data helps organizations recognize patterns and trends that inform their HSE strategies going forward.