In September of 2014, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration published new requirements for reporting severe injuries. It is critical for companies to understand and comply with these safety regulations to ensure that their staff, both permanent and temporary, is kept safe on the job. In the event of a severe injury here are the steps organizations need to take.

Notifying OSHA of Severe Injury or Death

Previously, companies were only required to notify OSHA if three or more employees sustained serious injuries that resulted in hospitalization or if any single employee died from work related injuries. With the new requirements businesses are now expected to report hospitalization or fatality for any and all employees injured on the job.

Time Frame for Reporting

Employers now have 24 hours to report hospitalizations or fatalities to OSHA.

Changing the Reporting Requirements.

“Hospitalizations and amputations are sentinel events, indicating that serious hazards are likely to be present at a workplace and that an intervention is warranted to protect the other workers at the establishment,” said the assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health, Dr. David Michaels in the press release.

Exemptions.

The press release also included updates on the industries that remain exempt from OSHA requirements at this level. Industries that have relatively low injury and illness rates due to a generally safe environment are not required to keep records. For more information about industries that are exempt visit the OSHA website.

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