Most construction employers must keep OSHA injury and illness records. Here is what the forms are, what to record and the deadlines that matter.
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Recordkeeping is a legal duty
Most construction employers with more than 10 employees must keep OSHA injury and illness records. The OSHA 300 log is not just paperwork: it shows patterns, affects your reputation with owners and GCs, and mistakes can lead to citations.
The three forms
- OSHA 300: the log of recordable injuries and illnesses.
- OSHA 301: the incident report with details of each case.
- OSHA 300A: the annual summary.
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What is recordable
Work-related injuries and illnesses that result in death, days away from work, restricted work, job transfer, medical treatment beyond first aid, loss of consciousness or a significant diagnosed condition. First aid alone is generally not recordable. OSHA's definitions are specific, so check them when in doubt.
Record quickly
Recordable cases must be entered within seven calendar days of learning about them.
Post the summary
The 300A summary must be posted in a visible place from February 1 to April 30 each year. Many establishments must also submit data electronically to OSHA by early March, depending on size and industry.
Severe injury reporting
Separately from the log, a work-related fatality must be reported to OSHA within 8 hours, and an inpatient hospitalization, amputation or loss of an eye within 24 hours.
Keep the records
Records must be kept for five years after the end of the year they cover.
Multi-employer sites
Generally, the employer who supervises the injured worker day to day records the case. Clarify responsibilities with subs and staffing agencies.
Use the data
The log shows which tasks, trades and seasons produce injuries. Use it to focus training and toolbox talks.
Encourage reporting
Employees have the right to report injuries without retaliation. Accurate records start with workers who are not afraid to speak up.
Privacy cases
Some cases, such as certain injuries or illnesses of a sensitive nature, are privacy cases where the employee's name is not entered on the log. Follow OSHA's rules for these.
Keep it organized
Safety software or a well-maintained spreadsheet makes it easier to keep the log current and pull the summary at year-end.
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Frequently asked questions
When must the OSHA 300A summary be posted?
From February 1 to April 30 each year, in a place where employees can see it.