TRADE NEWS RELEASE
Jan. 2, 2002
Contact: Susan Hall Fleming
Phone: (202) 693-1999

Simpler, easier to follow requirements for tracking workplace injuries and illnesses are now in force for 1.4 million employers covered by OSHA's new recordkeeping rule.

"The new recordkeeping system is easier for employers to understand, better protects employee privacy in sensitive cases and will yield more accurate injury and illness data," said OSHA Administrator John L. Henshaw. "The new OSHA forms are smaller; they fit on legal size paper. We've also clarified and simplified the instructions for filling out the forms."

Last month, OSHA mailed forms to employers likely to be covered by the rule. In addition, new recordkeeping forms, training materials, fact sheets and other assistance are available on OSHA's website at www.osha-slc.gov/recordkeeping/index.html to help employers make the transition to the new system. Employers can also access the web version of a satellite training broadcast the agency aired on Dec. 12, 2001. The OSHA website also includes frequently asked questions as well as a listing of recordkeeping coordinators and local OSHA offices if employers have further questions or need more information.

As employers switch from the old recordkeeping system to the new one, they will need to post their 2001 summary of injuries and illnesses during the month of February. Beginning in 2003, the annual summary is to be posted for three months-February, March and April.

The text of this news release is available on the OSHA website at http://www.osha.gov. Information on this release will be made available to sensory impaired individuals upon request. Voice phone: (202) 693-1999.