An OSHA-recordable case belongs on the employer’s OSHA injury and illness log when it meets one of the criteria in 29 CFR 1904.7. A case is generally recordable if it results in death, days away from work, restricted work or job transfer, medical treatment beyond first aid, loss of consciousness, or a significant diagnosed injury or illness.
“Reportable” usually refers to a separate duty to notify OSHA quickly about certain severe outcomes. Employers must report a work-related fatality within 8 hours and an in-patient hospitalization, amputation, or loss of an eye within 24 hours, subject to the rule’s details and exceptions. A recordable case is not automatically one that must be reported immediately.
Document what happened, the work connection, the treatment, and any resulting work restrictions. Do not decide based only on the employee’s job title or whether the person returned to work that day. If the facts are unclear, consult the regulation or a qualified safety professional promptly.
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Sources: OSHA recordkeeping regulation, 29 CFR 1904; OSHA severe injury reporting.