How to Keep OSHA Compliance Records

All private companies must keep records that show the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) that the company is in compliance. All OSHA records must be kept on site and easily accessible to inspectors. A company that is not in compliance with OSHA can incur heavy fines.

1. Keep an accurate file of all employee illnesses and accidents. This includes employee hospitalizations that were due to work-related injuries or illnesses. A record of work related deaths should be kept as well as all medical records for each incident. Records need to be kept for a minimum of 30 years.


2. Keep a separate file that contains copies of monthly safety meetings. OSHA safety meetings need to cover subjects outlined in the OSHA handbook. Include in the file the signatures of employees that attended the meeting, as well as any OSHA safety quizzes given during the meeting.


3. A separate file should contain OSHA inspection records. These include OSHA fines, violations and complaints filed by employees.


4. All OSHA records should be easily accessible to an OSHA inspector. The records must be kept on-site and not at a separate location.


5. Post form 300A, incident report, in a visible location that is accessible to all employees. You must have form 300A posted prior to April 31 of each year.


6. If forms are needed, log onto OSHA.gov. All required compliance forms are available online, ready to download and print. Posters, handbooks, brochures and other safety material can be ordered online when needed.