What is an Accident?
An accident is the final outcome of an unplanned process that results in injury or illness to an employee and may also cause property damage. It represents the end result of multiple underlying causes, including both surface and root factors.
An event occurs when an actor (a person or object) performs an action that causes a change in state. This could involve a person, equipment, tools, or materials. Accidents often result from a combination of factors—simultaneous, interconnected, or cross-linked events—that interact in a dynamic way.
Reporting Accidents to OSHA
Companies in the private sector may be required to report serious accidents or fatalities to their State or Federal OSHA office. OSHA Standard 1904.39 outlines the requirements for reporting work-related fatalities, hospitalizations, amputations, and loss of an eye.
Basic Reporting Requirements:
- Fatalities: Report any work-related employee death to OSHA within 8 hours of the incident.
- Serious Injuries: Report inpatient hospitalizations, amputations, or loss of an eye to OSHA within 24 hours of the incident.
For detailed guidance, refer to OSHA’s injury flowchart, which explains when and how to report work-related injuries.