OSHA stipulates recording and reporting criteria for work-related injuries and illnesses in 29 CFR 1904.0-1904.11. There are various considerations to take into account when determining if an incident, injury, or illness is considered work-related and therefore needs to be evaluated for recording and reporting criteria.
29 CFR 1904.5 covers determination of work-relatedness for recording and reporting. At the surface, it may seem like it would be fairly straightforward to determine if an injury, accident, or illness is work-related, however this determination can become extremely complicated. OSHA defines the ‘work environment’ and also explains situations where an injury or illness in the work environment is not considered work-related, but there are still grey areas that require thorough investigation to determine work-relatedness. A few of the many factors that can affect work-relatedness are travel status, working from home, and pre-exiting medical conditions. OSHA has published guidance and numerous standard interpretation letters that can be referenced when determining if an injury or illness is in fact work-related.
Be sure to take the time to carefully consider work-relatedness and make the right determination.