OSHA Recordkeeping regulation 29CFR 1904 requires employers to prepare and maintain records of serious occupational injuries and illnesses, using the OSHA 300 Log. Current and former employees, or their representatives, have the right to access injury and illness records and the employer must give the requester a copy of the relevant record(s) by the end of the next business day.

Covered employers must record all work-related injuries and illnesses that result in days away from work, restricted work or transfer to another job, loss of consciousness or medical treatment beyond first aid. In addition, employers must record significant work-related injuries or illnesses diagnoses by a physician or other licensed health care professional, even if it does not result in death, days away from work, restricted work or job transfer, medical treatment beyond first aid, or loss of consciousness. OSHA’s definition of work-related injuries, illnesses and fatalities are those in which an event or exposure in the work environment either caused or contributed to the condition. In addition, if an event or exposure in the work environment significantly aggravated a pre-existing injury or illness, this is also considered work-related.

Employers who are required to keep Form 300 must post Form 300A (the Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses) in a place accessible to all employees every year from February 1 to April 30.  OSHA’s recordkeeping forms (300, 300A, 301) can be found here.
 

This information is important for employers, workers and OSHA in evaluating the safety of a workplace, understanding industry hazards, and implementing worker protections to reduce and eliminate hazards. OSHA may be reached to ask questions or for further clarifications at 1-800-321-OSHA (6742).