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What work injuries should to be reported to OSHA?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was created by Congress to establish safe working conditions for employees by creating and maintaining standards. Employers with more than 10 employees are required to report all major work-related injuries to OSHA. This information can help OSHA assess workplace safety for employees and employers.
More specifically, any work injuries that include amputations, workers who required hospitalization, or workers who lost an eye must be reported to OSHA immediately within 24 hours of the injury. Any work injuries that result in a fatality must be reported within 8 hours. OSHA classifies amputations as the loss of a complete or partial limb including fingertip amputations that may or may not include the bone. Finger amputations make up some of the most common injuries that are reported to OSHA.
Why is it important to file a workers’ compensation claim quickly?
It is critical that any work injury is documented and filed with workers’ compensation promptly. Delaying this can not only cause a worsening of the patient’s symptoms but also may impede billing and result in higher costs. A delay in filing can increase the chance that the workers’ compensation carrier will deny the claim and deem care non-compensable. Additionally, certain benefits, such as nurse case managers, can be limited. There can also be fines associated with reporting a late workers’ compensation claim.
What are the most common work injuries?
The most commonly reported work injuries are lacerations, sprains, strains, contusions or bruises, burns, eye injuries, fractures, amputations, and cumulative trauma. These injuries can occur in a variety of settings from overuse, falls, getting crushed in machinery, cutting fingers with saws or knives, motor vehicle collisions, or workplace violence.
