OSHA Recordkeeping Standard Overview

The OSHA Recordkeeping Standard (29 CFR 1904) requires employers to document and report work-related injuries, illnesses, and fatalities to ensure workplace safety and transparency. The purpose is to track trends, identify hazards, and improve prevention strategies.
Key requirements include:

• Recordable incidents: Employers must log incidents involving medical treatment beyond first aid, days away from work, restricted duties, loss of consciousness, or fatalities.
• OSHA 300 Log: Employers record incidents here, with details on the employee, injury, and outcome.
• Annual Summary (OSHA 300A): A yearly summary must be posted publicly for employee awareness.
• Reporting fatalities and severe injuries: Employers must report fatalities within 8 hours, and amputations, loss of an eye, or hospitalizations within 24 hours.

Exemptions exist for small businesses with 10 or fewer employees and certain low-hazard industries, though all employers must still report fatalities and severe injuries. Proper recordkeeping ensures compliance and contributes to a safer work environment.

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