Recording injuries in the workplace

We previously shared information regarding your responsibility to create and maintain a compliant IIPP (Injury and Illness Prevention Program). This week, we dive into how to properly record workplace injuries and illnesses. 

Employers must record work-related injuries and illnesses using the Injury and Illness Incident Report – Form 301. This can be used throughout the year to track and maintain proper records. This record should include any injury or illness that required more than just first aid. Cal/OSHA defines first aid as any one-time or short-term treatment for minor scratches, cuts, burns, splinters, or other minor injuries. Each establishment or work location should maintain their own record. 

Incidents from the Form 301 will then be transferred to the Work-Related Injuries and Illness Log – Form 300. The Form 300 is a log as opposed to the Form 301, which is a more in-depth report. 

At the end of each year, you then transfer the information from the Form 300 to the Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses – Form 300A. This is the summary of incidents at each workplace location. The Form 300A should be posted each year from February 1-April 30 at a location that is frequented by employees, often near your compliance posters.  

Employers with 9 or fewer employees are not required to record workplace injuries or illnesses. Therefore, they are exempt from posting the Form 300A. 

This is an overview of the recording requirements in California. Reach out to our consulting team for more in depth guidance.