2017 April | Page 6

Spring 2017 3 New Developments on OSHA Recordkeeping and Reporting Rules Recent legislative changes and communication from OSHA could impact recordkeeping and reporting requirements. 3 New Developments that May Impact OSHA Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements OSHA frequently introduces or revises rules to remain up to date with new technologies and procedures, such as the agency’s new electronic reporting rule. However, recent legislative changes and communications from OSHA could impact how your business manages and retains injury and illness records in the near future. The following is a breakdown of recent OSHA developments: President Trump Blocks Federal Contractor Reporting Rule A new resolution will block a rule that would have required federal contractors to report workplace violations when bidding on federal contracts. OSHA Delays New Beryllium Rule OSHA delayed a final rule on beryllium exposure in response to the current regulatory freeze. • The Senate voted in favor of a resolution to eliminate a rule that requires businesses to retain workplace injury and illness records for five years after an incident occurs. This rule, which went into effect this January, allows OSHA to issue citations to businesses up to five years after an incident, provided the violation is related to recordkeeping. President Donald Trump is expected to sign the resolution, which will instead require businesses to keep records for six months after an incident. • OSHA recently stated that it is currently not ready to accept electronic injury and illness data. Although its electronic reporting rule went into effect on Jan. 1, 2017, there is no way for businesses to submit the required data. It is currently unknown if this delay will impact the implementation of the rule, or if it is the result of the Trump administration’s effort to reduce new federal regulations. • OSHA has stopped publishi ng its enforcement actions and fines online. The agency believed that the negative publicity from publishing these reports online would help to reduce workplace safety violations. However, OSHA has not publicized its enforcement efforts since Trump took office. For the time being, your business should adhere to its normal recordkeeping and reporting procedures to ensure compliance with OSHA regulations and avoid costly fines. PROVIDED BY Marshall & Sterling Insurance 800-724-0695 www.marshallsterling.com/leeds Contact Us