- Standard Number:
OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.
August 18, 1993
Mr. W. William Ament
Organization Resources Counselors, Inc.
1910 Sunderland Place, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20036
Dear Mr. Ament:
Thank you for your letter dated August 4, requesting an interpretation regarding the determination of the proper date of injury or illness for OSHA recordkeeping purposes. For occupational injuries, enter the actual date of the work accident which resulted in the injury. For occupational illnesses, enter the actual date of initial diagnosis of the illness, or, if absence from work occurred before diagnosis, enter the date of absence attributable to the illness which was later diagnosed or detected (see section A on page 9 of the Recordkeeping Guidelines).
I hope you find this information useful. If you have any further questions or comments, please contact me at Area Code (202) 219-6463.
Sincerely,
Stephen A. Newell Director
Office of Statistics