The phrase "unprecedented step" means doing something that has never been done before or taking an action that is revolutionary or groundbreaking. Full definition
State officials are now taking unprecedented steps to weed out the worst of the schools. (pureparents.org)
This unprecedented situation requires unprecedented steps to save lives and safeguard peace and security. (sciencemag.org)
We're seeing law firms take some pretty unprecedented steps to respond to economic conditions, and many of the things firms are doing to resolve their own financial woes are very creative. (legalblogwatch.typepad.com)