The OSHA incidence rate formula is: number of cases multiplied by 200,000, divided by total hours worked by all employees during the period. The 200,000 figure represents 100 full-time employees working 40 hours per week for 50 weeks. For a total recordable case rate, use the recordable cases that belong in the chosen category, such as the total recordable cases used for a TRIR calculation.
Example: if a company has 3 recordable cases and employees worked 300,000 hours, the rate is 3 × 200,000 ÷ 300,000 = 2.0. Use the same time period, case definition, and hours-worked method when comparing rates. A small team’s rate can move sharply from one case, so explain the numbers alongside the work performed, exposure, and corrective actions.
Do not use the rate as a substitute for reviewing each event. Check the underlying OSHA logs, confirm hours worked, and make sure the case category is correct. Clients may define additional metrics in their contracts, so verify each reporting requirement.
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Sources: OSHA incidence rate calculation; OSHA recordkeeping forms and guidance.