When a workplace injury/illness occurs, it’s critical to report it to Cal OSHA to ensure workplace safety and compliance with regulations. To help make things easier, we’ve provided you a 5-step guide how to report an injury/illness, and what happens if you don’t report it to Cal OSHA.
How to Report Workplace Injuries/Illnesses
- Immediate Response: When an injury/illness occurs ensure that the injured worker receives immediate medical attention. Depending on its severity, contact emergency services or provide first aid on-site. Make sure the injured worker is stable before proceeding with the reporting process.
- Employees Need to Inform a Supervisor of Injury: To ensure that the right documentation and initial steps are taken, it’s critical to report the incident as soon as possible. Employers have the responsibility to maintain a safe working environment and to report serious injuries to Cal OSHA.
- Conduct a Thorough Incident Investigation: Collect detailed information about the injury, including the time, date, location, and circumstances surrounding the incident. Document any witnesses and gather their statements if possible. Take photographs of the injury and the area where it occurred. This documentation will be valuable when completing the official report.
- Document the Injury/Illness on OSHA Form 300: Employers are required to complete the Workers’ Compensation DWC-1 form, Employers First Report of Injury Form 5020, and Cal OSHA Form 300, which is the Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses. For serious injuries, (such as hospitalizations, amputation, or loss of an eye) employers must report the incident to Cal OSHA within 8 hours by phone or online. Ensure that all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays in the process. This link will provide you proper Cal OSHA contact information for reporting – https://www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/report-accident-or-injury.html. NOTE: If you called 9-1-1, Cal OSHA has been made aware of the EMS response
- Follow Up and Cooperation: After the report has been submitted, Cal OSHA may investigate. Cooperate with any inspectors and provide additional information or documentation as requested. It’s important to follow up to ensure that any recommended corrective actions are implemented to prevent future incidents.
What Happens If I Don’t Report a Workplace Injury to Cal OSHA?
Failing to report an injury to Cal OSHA can have serious consequences for both employers and employees. Not reporting a workplace injury may result in significant penalties for the employer. The citation/penalty for not reporting a serious injury/illness is a citation with a penalty of $5,000 [Section 342(a)]. An Administrative Law Judge is the only one who can reduce this penalty during the appeal process.
Not reporting injuries can also damage an organization’s reputation and the trust among employees. Workers may feel undervalued and unsafe, which can lead to decreased morale and productivity. It’s also crucial to report injuries promptly and accurately to protect employees’ well-being, and foster a culture of safety and transparency in the workplace.
