Is This Injury OSHA Recordable?
Walk through the official recording criteria from 29 CFR 1904.7 to determine if a workplace injury or illness belongs on your OSHA 300 Log.
Did the employee experience an injury or illness?
Understanding OSHA Recordability
Under OSHA's recordkeeping standard (29 CFR Part 1904), employers with more than 10 employees in most industries must maintain records of work-related injuries and illnesses. The key question is whether a specific case meets the general recording criteria outlined in 29 CFR 1904.7.
When Is a Workplace Injury OSHA Recordable?
A work-related injury or illness is OSHA recordable if it results in any of the following:
- Death — Must be reported to OSHA within 8 hours
- Days away from work — Any time off beyond the day of injury
- Restricted work or job transfer — Cannot perform all routine job functions
- Loss of consciousness — Regardless of duration
- Significant diagnosed injury or illness — Cancer, chronic disease, fractures, punctured eardrums
- Medical treatment beyond first aid — The most commonly misunderstood criterion
Medical Treatment vs. First Aid
The most common area of confusion is distinguishing between first aid and medical treatment beyond first aid. OSHA provides a complete, exhaustive list of what constitutes first aid. Any treatment NOT on this list is medical treatment, making the case recordable.
Note: Diagnostic procedures such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs are NOT considered medical treatment when used solely for diagnostic purposes. An employee can receive imaging and still have the case be non-recordable if the only actual treatment provided was first aid.
Why Accurate Recordability Matters
Accurate OSHA recordkeeping is critical. Incorrect records can lead to OSHA citations and penalties. Your injury rates affect your Experience Modification Rate (EMR), which directly impacts your workers' compensation insurance premiums. Employers with higher recordable rates may also face increased OSHA inspection targeting.