On January 26, 2022, the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) published an official news release reminding employers in the state of their duty to post a legally-compliant annual summary of work-related injuries and illnesses. Here, our California workers’ compensation defense attorneys explain the key things employers should know about their duty to post an annual summary of work-related medical conditions.
Employers Should Post Annual Summary From February 1st to April 30th
California has some of the most stringent, comprehensive state-level workplace safety requirements in the entire country. One of the many standards that employers should be aware of is the state’s duty to post annual information regarding workplace accidents, injuries, and illnesses. In accordance with state regulations, Cal/OSHA requires an annual summary of work-related injuries and illnesses at every location. The information should be posted in an accessible area from February 1st until April 30th.
Understanding the Reports: What Injuries and Illnesses Should be Recorded
California law does not require employers to report every minor bump or bruise that an employee might get in the workplace. Cal/OSHA has promulgated clear standards for the different types of information that should be recorded and reported. As an employer, you have a legal duty to record and report an accident/incident if it results in any of the following:
- Professional medical attention beyond first aid;
- An employee missing days from the job;
- Loss of consciousness by a worker; or
- The death of an employee.
Cal/OSHA Emphasizes that COVID-19 Worker Exposure Should be Reported
COVID-19 remains a threat in workplaces across California. Cal/OSHA is reminding employers that they do have an obligation to record and report work-related COVID-19 exposure. As long as the illness resulted in an employee missing time on the job, the condition should be reported—even if an employee had few or no symptoms and did not require any sort of professional medical attention.
Employers Do Not Need to Post the Full Log—Only the Annual Summary
In compliance with Cal/OSHA regulations, employers should be maintaining a logbook of work-related injuries and illnesses. When done properly, the logbook will have comprehensive information regarding all of the incidents that occurred within the workplace during the course of a given year. To be clear, employers in California are not required to post the logbook in a public place. Indeed, that may be improper as it could include some confidential or otherwise sensitive employee information. Instead, employers must merely post an annual summary.
Call Our Fresno, CA Workers’ Compensation Defense Attorney Today
At Yrulegui & Roberts, our Fresno workers’ compensation defense professionals provide personalized, cost-effective legal guidance and support. If you are an employer with any questions or concerns about your responsibilities regarding Cal/OSHA logbooks and annual summaries, we can help. Contact us today for a confidential, no obligation initial case review. We serve WCAB regions throughout the area, including Fresno, Stockton, and San Jose.
