Guide to OSHA Recordkeeping & Recording
Maintaining accurate records is a crucial part of any business. But it’s especially vital for those in the construction and manufacturing industries. These businesses are subject to following the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
They have set stringent recordkeeping guidelines. For every 70,000 workers, one OSHA compliance officer maintains recordkeeping forms. Failure to follow the OSHA recordkeeping rule can result in a few things.
The most common punishment is fines and penalties. This is why it is essential to understand the requirements. But what happens if you’re unsure how to keep up with the paperwork?
The first step is to educate yourself on the OSHA recordkeeping guidelines. This can come from OSHA recordkeeping training or through other OSHA compliance studies.
If you work in construction or manufacturing, you must learn the rules. This makes logging employee hours and conditions easy.
Having a brief overview of OSHA’s recordkeeping guidelines can be helpful. Here’s what you need to know and do to ensure compliance.
What is OSHA Recordkeeping?
OSHA recordkeeping tracks and documents work-related injuries, illnesses, and safety hazards. Employers must maintain accurate records of these incidents. This can help to identify trends and prevent future accidents.
Workplace accidents can result in significant financial losses for businesses. So it’s essential to take every precaution to avoid them. Employers must log specific work-related injuries and illnesses. This is due to the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970.
These logs must be made available to OSHA upon request. Employers who fail to follow this regulation may be subject to hefty fines and penalties.
OSHA Recordkeeping Requirements
Construction and manufacturing companies must maintain certain records. This is a part of their commitment to safety. The specific records that need to be kept depend on a company’s size and industry.
Typically, they include information on workplace injuries and illnesses. Other information details worker exposures to hazardous substances and workplace accidents. All this data must be recorded in a manner that is accessible to OSHA inspectors.
The specific format requirements for these records can be found in 29 CFR 1904. This is also known as the Recording and Reporting Occupational Injuries and Illnesses rule.
Additionally, all employers must complete the Injury and Illness Incident Report (OSHA Form 301). This has to happen whenever a work-related injury or illness occurs. This form must also be available to OSHA upon request.
It’s worth noting that some businesses are exempt from these recordkeeping requirements. Businesses with ten or fewer employees are typically exempt. The reason is that OSHA has determined a low injury and illness rate.
How to Comply With OSHA Recordkeeping Guidelines
There are a few key things you need to do to comply with OSHA recordkeeping guidelines. First, you’ll need to create a system for tracking workplace injuries, illnesses, and safety hazards.
This system should be easily accessible to all employees. Next, you’ll need to provide OSHA recordkeeping training for your employees. This will ensure they know how to use the system properly.
Finally, you’ll need to review the system periodically. Having an audit process can ensure that things are being recorded correctly. By taking these steps, you can be sure that your workplace complies with OSHA regulations.
Are You Following The OSHA Recordkeeping Guidelines?
The OSHA recordkeeping guidelines are vital for construction and manufacturing companies. This is why the OSHA recordkeeping rule was created. Failure to do so can result in significant financial loss.
You want to ensure that all your recordkeeping forms are recorded accurately. This will give you the best chance of avoiding potential problems. If you need help with your OSHA recordkeeping training, do not worry.
The Phase Associates dedicated team of experts has experience helping companies follow the OSHA recordkeeping guidelines. If your workplace is in NJ, NY, PA, CT, DE, VA, MD or GA, we can do the same for your company, so reach out to get started today!