OSHA has had rules for injury-related recordkeeping and reporting since 2002, when standard 29 CFR 1904 was first enacted. With one eye on ways to improve workplace safety and another on how effectively their standard is implemented in the field, OSHA recently adjusted the reporting requirements for serious injuries and increased the fine for failing to report serious, work-related injuries on time.
Here is a look at the new changes to 29 CFR 1904.
What has Changed?
OSHA’s March 4, 2016 enforcement memorandum outlines these changes to 29 CFR 1904, section 39, for employers: “more information from the employer when conducting an RRI; a safe harbor provision for employers who conduct internal investigations during the RRI; monitoring inspections of closed RRIs; increased penalties for failure to report.”
Timing
OSHA’s enforcement memo cites these requirements for reporting fatalities, hospitalizations, amputations, and losses of an eye, as a result of work-related incidents:
What is Reportable?
Previously, reportable work-related injuries included those with three or more employee hospitalizations, and any fatality. Current requirements have changed and now include:
Fines
The primary impact of the change is hiking the fine to improve the reporting of serious injuries within 24 hours.
You may access OSHA’s 300 Log and the 301 Injury and Illness Incident Report forms here.
Monitoring
OSHA now may spot-check companies who report a serious injury and promise to investigate and mitigate any workplace safety hazards.
Who Must Comply With This Rule?
Standard 29 CFR 1904 covers all private sector companies with more than ten employees. The ruling also applies to public sector agencies in states with OSHA-approved workplace safety regulations.
You may read OSHA standard 29 CFR 1904 in full here.
The Message for Employers
Taken together, OSHA’s new reportable injury list, the hike in the fine for late reporting of injuries, and the increased spot monitoring that the change includes send a signal to employers that OSHA is stepping up its enforcement, in a push to strengthen workplace safety and encourage employers to invest in protecting employees.
Employers who want to step up their workplace safety and compliance will appreciate the cost-effective and efficient support available through Wise Businessware’s software and e-training programs. When it comes to workplace safety, compliance, and training, we have your back. Contact us to see how we can strengthen your EHS systems in a way that makes good business sense.