Electronic OSHA Reporting Deadline Delayed For Now, or Forever?

With the July 1, 2017 deadline looming for OSHA's electronic reporting requirement, it came as a relief to employers when, in May. OSHA gave word that it intended to propose extending this deadline.  

Under OSHA's revised record-keeping rules, certain employers are required to electronically report injury and illness data with OSHA.  This rule became effective on January 1, 2017, with the first reporting deadline set for July 1, 2017.  However, as this date drew near, OSHA acknowledged that it had not established the website capable of accepting the submissions.  OSHA has now formally proposed to extend the filing deadline until December 1, 2017.  With this formal delay, OSHA also stated that the additional time with give the agency an opportunity to "further review and consider the rule."  Whether this means OSHA will reconsider the rule entirely remains to be seen, but for now, employers can at least be assured the immediate deadline for reporting will be formally delayed.

If you have questions about OSHA reporting, contact Aimee DeLaney in Chicago or your regular Hinshaw lawyer.