OSHA's New Record-Keeping Rule Now In Effect

The Occupational Safety and Healthy Administration (OSHA)'s new record-keeping rule went into effect on January 1st, 2015. If you're an employer, you should familiarize yourself with this new rule, as it contains some major changes.

The previous rule required employers to report all work-related fatalities within an 8-hour period. From the New Year going forward, however, employers will have to report all work-related fatalities within 8 hours, as well as hospitalizations requiring in-patient treatment and work-related injuries resulting in loss of an eye within 24 hours.

Of course, there are some employers who are exempt from OSHA's record-keeping rule, including those who employ 10 or fewer employees.

So, why did OSHA feel the need to revise its record-keeping rule? According to a statement published by the Administration, the new rule will allow OSHA to focus on preventing work-related injuries and fatalities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that some 4,405 workers were killed in 2013. While the number of work-related deaths has gradually declined ever since OSHA was first formed, it remains a top priority for officials. The new record-keeping rule will provide additional data to officials, at which point OSHA can make the necessary changes to further prevent injuries and fatalities.

Employers who fail to report work-related fatalities, injuries involving the loss of an eye, and injuries requiring in-patient treatment could be subject to fines under OSHA's new rule. OSHA plans to make the task of reporting a little easier, however, by setting up an online reporting service. There's still no word yet on when this service will be implemented, but officials say it's currently in the works.

"The final rule will allow OSHA to focus its efforts more effectively to prevent fatalities and severe work-related injuries and illnesses. The final rule will also improve access by employers, employees, researchers and the public to information about workplace safety and health and increase their ability to identify and abate serious hazards," wrote OSHA.

But not everyone is thrilled about the new record-keeping requirements. Some employers say reporting injuries will be more time-consuming and laborious. Granted, it may prove to be a slight nuisance to some, but

To learn more about this record-keeping rule and what it entitles, visit https://www.osha.gov/recordkeeping2014/OSHA3744.pdf.

What do you think of OSHA's new record-keeping rule? Let us know in the comments section below!