OSHA delays electronic injury and illness reporting compliance date

WASHINGTON — The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has delayed the electronic reporting compliance date for the “Improved Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses” rule from July 1 to December 1 in an effort to allow greater review and consideration of its affect and needs, according to the United States Labor Department.

The rule requires certain employers to electronically submit injury and illness data to OSHA. The compliance extension for the new “Improved Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses” rule, which was published in May 2016, looks to provide employers “the same four-month window for submitting data that the original rule would have provided.”

The delay also allows for further examination of law and policy in regards to the rule. OSHA officially extended the compliance date after a public comment period on the proposed extension reflected a desire for its implementation.

According to Newsday, there is speculation whether the rule will actually be put into place after substantial push back from businesses and government officials. The outlet also reports there are currently two lawsuits against the ruling.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role is to ensure these conditions for America’s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit www.osha.gov.