What Makes an Injury Recordable to OSHA vs. Not Recordable?
Workplace safety is of paramount importance to both employers and employees. One critical aspect of ensuring safety is understanding which injuries are recordable to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA mandates that certain work-related injuries and illnesses be recorded to maintain accurate records and identify potential hazards. Let’s delve into what makes an injury recordable to OSHA and what distinguishes it from non-recordable incidents.
Recordable Injuries
A recordable injury, as per OSHA’s guidelines, is one that meets specific criteria. These criteria include:
Work-Relatedness
If an employee sustains an injury while performing work duties or while on the employer’s premises, it is recordable.
Treatment Beyond First Aid
Injuries that require medical treatment beyond first aid are typically recordable. These include stitches for lacerations or prescription medication for pain management.
Involvement of Specific Body Parts
OSHA provides a list of body parts where injuries are recordable. These include, but are not limited to, fractures, amputations, loss of an eye, and significant burns. Any injury involving these body parts will likely be considered recordable.
Non-Recordable Injuries
On the other hand, some injuries and incidents fall under the category of “not recordable.” These include:
Minor Injuries Treated With Basic First Aid
As mentioned earlier, injuries that only require basic first aid, such as minor cuts, bruises, or simple splints, are generally not recordable.
Injuries from Personal Tasks or Non-work-related Activities
If an employee sustains an injury while engaged in personal tasks during work hours or unrelated to their work duties, it is likely not recordable.
Pre-existing Conditions
Injuries or aggravation of pre-existing conditions that do not result from work-related activities are typically not recordable.
Learn More
Understanding the difference between recordable and non-recordable injuries is crucial for maintaining compliance with OSHA regulations. For more information, contact Healthline Medical Group today.
