You know that saying, no one likes change. The thing is – in the world of benefits and insurance, changes are to be expected. Most recently, OSHA (the Occupational Safety and Health Administration) has issued a new rule when it comes to reporting workplace injuries.

Sooo what is the new OSHA rule?

OSHA has stipulated that business owners should submit relevant workplace injuries or illnesses electronically. Separately, the new rule states that companies cannot discourage employees from reporting workplace injuries or illnesses. Also known as anti-retaliation provisions. (Say that five times fast.) Luckily, OSHA is giving companies until November 1, 2016 to get in the know. (Luckily, this article is available in September). ?

A bit more detail…

The electronic reporting provisions will begin in 2017. This provision stipulates any 2016 injuries or illnesses listed on the Form 300A should be electronically submitted by July 1, 2017. 2017 injuries should be submitted by July 1, 2018. And, if you thought a pattern was beginning here, it’s not.

Starting in 2019, injury and illnesses reports from the previous year will be required by March 2. (Just to keep things interesting, of course.)

There are four main rules under the anti-retaliation provisions:

1. Employers must let employees know about their right to report any work-related illnesses or injuries.
2. Employers must create a procedure for employees to report work-related illnesses and injuries that does not discourage employees from reporting these incidents.
3. Employers must provide their employees access to workplace injury and illness records.
4. Employees cannot retaliate against any employee for reporting a workplace injury or illness.

Now much of this is subjective, but OSHA states that companies cannot implement any program that encourages or incentivizes keeping accident or injury rates low. Throw the gold stars and brownie points out – at least for this.

Just remember – the most important thing is to stay-up-to-date on requirements, know your options, the rules, and remain compliant. Check the Decisely blog often to keep up with the ever-changing world of benefits and insurance.