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OSHA interpretation · 1994-02-22

Incidents involving hospitalization of multiple employees.

← All interpretations§ 1904.8

OSHA’s standing caveat

Interpretation letters explain existing requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. Enforcement guidance may be affected by later changes to OSHA rules, and a letter addresses the facts it was given — not necessarily yours.

Where this letter fits

OSHA issued this letter on 1994-02-22. It interprets the following provisions of 29 CFR Part 1904:

  • § 1904.8 — Recording criteria for needlestick and sharps injuries (5 OSHA letters cite this section)

Browse every letter on the interpretations index, read worked examples on the scenarios page, or see the first-aid list that 29 CFR 1904.7 turns on.

February 22, 1994 Ms. Monica Verros, R.N., C.O.H.N., C.C.M. Occupational Health Advisor Mail Drop 14A IBP, Inc. IBP Avenue Post Office Box 515 Dakota City, Nebraska 68731 Dear Ms. Verros: Thank you for your letter dated February 11, requesting an interpretation regarding the reporting requirements for incidents involving the hospitalization of multiple employees under 29 CFR 1904.8. For reporting purposes, an employee is considered to be "hospitalized" when that employee is admitted to the hospital on an "in-patient" basis. Accordingly, emergency room and all other forms of out-patient care are excluded from the reporting requirement. Please be aware that revisions to the requirements under 29 CFR 1904.8 are nearing finalization and are expected to be published in the Federal Register in the immediate future. I hope you find this information useful. If you have any further questions, please contact us at Area Code (202) 219-6463. Sincerely, Bob Whitmore Chief Division of Recordkeeping Requirements

Reproduced verbatim from osha.gov. US Government work, public domain (17 U.S.C. § 105).

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