OSHA Recordkeeping Rule Takes Effect

New requirements for tracking workplace injuries and illnesses are now in force for 1.4 million employers covered by OSHA's new recordkeeping rule.

"The new recordkeeping system is easier for employers to understand, better protects employee privacy in sensitive cases and will yield more accurate injury and illness data," said OSHA Administrator John L. Henshaw. "The new OSHA forms are smaller; they fit on legal size paper. We've also clarified and simplified the instructions for filling out the forms."

New recordkeeping forms, training materials, fact sheets and other assistance are available on OSHA's website at www.osha slc.gov/recordkeeping/index.html to help employers make the transition to the new system. Employers can also access the web version of a satellite training broadcast the agency aired on Dec. 12, 2001. The OSHA website also includes frequently asked questions as well as a listing of recordkeeping coordinators and local OSHA offices if employers have further questions or need more information.

As employers switch from the old recordkeeping system to the new one, they will need to post their 2001 summary of injuries and illnesses during the month of February. Beginning in 2003, the annual summary is to be posted for three months-February, March and April.

OSHA’S New Publications

OSHA has also developed new publications on injury and illness recordkeeping, and access to medical and exposure records.

Recordkeeping: It's new, it's improved, and it's easier....helps employers determine if they are covered by the OSHA's new recordkeeping rule that took effect Jan. 1, 2002. The publication explains the importance of injury and illness records, identifies basic recordkeeping requirements, highlights changes in the rule and includes a resource listing for additional information.
See:
[http://www.osha-slc.gov/recordkeeping/pub3169text.html]

Access to Medical and Exposure Records briefly explains OSHA requirements permitting workers to obtain medical chemical exposure records that employers maintain. Types of records available to employees and their designated representatives, record maintenance requirements, guidance for employers in providing access to records and sources of further information are included.
See:
[http://www.osha-slc.gov/Publications/osha3110.pdf]

All publications are available on OSHA's website at www.osha.gov.