Navigating OSHA Recordkeeping and Reporting in 2024

As we approach the annual OSHA reporting season, it's paramount for Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) managers to grasp the intricacies of recordkeeping and reporting. While this task may seem daunting its significance cannot be overstated. Timely and accurate reporting not only shapes safety standards within your organization but also influences national safety protocols.

For organizations meeting specific criteria, electronic filing of a summary log of injuries and illnesses to OSHA is mandatory. However, compliance obligations continually evolve, underscoring the importance of staying in line of regulatory updates. We delve into the latest for 2024 and underscore key aspects to ensure seamless record-keeping and reporting processes.

What's New for 2024—Extended Reporting Requirements for Select Industries

In a recent development, OSHA issued a final rule amending the record-keeping and reporting regulation at 29 CFR Part 1904. While this amendment does not introduce additional data tracking requirements, it mandates certain covered employers to electronically submit data from OSHA Forms 300 and 301 annually. Here's a detailed breakdown:

1. Affected Entities: Organizations employing 100 or more workers in designated industries.
2. Data to be Reported: Detailed incident information from OSHA Forms 300 and 301.
3. Excluded Information: Employee names or addresses, healthcare professionals' names and facility address for off-site treatment.
4. Industry Identification: OSHA has updated the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes to specify industries subject to the new reporting rule.

Moreover, organizations must include their company name when electronically submitting injury and illness data to OSHA. While OSHA plans to make some reported data publicly available, it will first anonymize information to safeguard individual privacy.

This new rule takes effect on January 1, 2024 impacting reporting obligations for the same year.

A Recap on Reporting Fundamentals

Despite industry-specific changes certain reporting rules remain steadfast. Here's a concise overview:

1. Distinguish Recordable Incidents: Capture only injuries and illnesses meeting OSHA's recordable criteria.
2. Complete Mandatory Forms: Promptly record incident details on OSHA Forms 300 and 301, followed by submission of Form 300A summarizing year-end data.
3. Electronic Submission Options: Opt for various reporting methods offered by OSHA's Injury Tracking Application (ITA) to ensure punctual data submission.

It's imperative to note that severe injuries must be reported to OSHA quickly, with fatalities necessitating reporting within 8 hours and hospitalizations or amputations within 24 hours.

Harnessing Technology for Streamlined Compliance

While OSHA offers guidance on record keeping, investing in an EHS software solution can streamline compliance endeavors.

By leveraging technology, you can enhance the accuracy and timeliness of your record keeping and reporting processes, thereby mitigating risks and fostering a safer work environment.