The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires businesses to document work-related injuries and illnesses meticulously. Beyond compliance, tracking incidents provides valuable insight into hazardous patterns.

For 2025, OSHA recordkeeping comes with some important updates, making it critical for businesses to stay informed.

Why Good OSHA Recordkeeping Is a Game-Changer

Good OSHA recordkeeping establishes credibility with workers, enhances safety, and ensures preparedness should OSHA auditors or inspectors come knocking.

If you’re new to OSHA guidelines or want to revisit the fundamental principles of recordkeeping, our previous blog, Demystifying OSHA Recordkeeping for Small Businesses, offers a fantastic starting point. It breaks down key compliance rules with a special focus on smaller-sized organizations that may not have the same resources as larger companies.

That foundational knowledge ties directly into some of the essential updates for 2025.

2025 OSHA Recordkeeping Updates

Here are some of the major updates for 2025 to include in your practices:

• Mental Health and Stress Tracking
  OSHA is increasingly recognizing the impact of work-related stress and mental health conditions. For 2025, the agency has clarified multiple scenarios in which mental health conditions, like burnout directly related to job demands, may qualify as recordable incidents. Such cases need to be carefully documented, provided they meet the criteria for severity and causation outlined by OSHA.

• Enhanced Ergonomic Injury Reporting
  This year brings renewed attention to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), which often result from repetitive motion or poor workplace ergonomics. Industries with high manual labor demands—like manufacturing, construction, mining, and oil & gas—need to be particularly vigilant when documenting and addressing these conditions. Proactively documenting and addressing these conditions can minimize the risk of chronic issues and potential compensation claims.

• Expanded Electronic Reporting
  OSHA has expanded its electronic reporting requirements in 2025. Now, businesses with 100 or more employees in certain high-risk sectors must submit incident data via OSHA’s Injury Tracking Application (ITA). Even exempt industries and smaller organizations are encouraged to take the digital route to simplify compliance. Transitioning to digital recordkeeping solutions can also reduce human errors, save time, and streamline reporting processes.

Step-By-Step OSHA Recordkeeping Guide

Step 1. Ensure Proper Exemptions and Applicability

Many businesses are exempt from OSHA recordkeeping based on size or industry risk, so it’s important to confirm whether your business qualifies. The 2025 update reinforces the need for all employers to stay aware of shifting classifications or exemptions that might affect them.

Step 2. Use the Right Recordkeeping Forms

OSHA’s required forms include the OSHA 300 log, OSHA 301 incident report, and OSHA 300A summary. Maintain complete and accurate records, particularly for incidents that involve medical attention beyond first aid, restricted workdays, or job transfers. Keep in mind the updated reporting protocols for 2025, especially pertaining to ergonomic and mental health conditions.

Step 3. Train for Accurate Incident Identification

One of the most common challenges is understanding which incidents qualify as OSHA recordable. Immediate action is key—make sure managers and employees know how to identify and properly report workplace injuries or illnesses.

Step 4. Submit and Display Reports Timely

The February 1–April 30 posting period for OSHA 300A remains unchanged in 2025. Additionally, eligible organizations must electronically submit data by the required deadlines.

Step 5. Audit Regularly

Internal audits should be a routine part of recordkeeping. They provide an opportunity to review safety trends, identify hazards, and ensure your submissions are accurate and complete.

Best Practices for 2025 OSHA Recordkeeping Compliance

• Stay Updated on Changes
  Resources like Axiom Medical can help businesses stay ahead of OSHA updates, ensuring seamless compliance. Regularly check the OSHA website and industry newsletters for any mid-year announcements or clarifications.

• Invest in Technology
  Digital tools not only help with data accuracy but also integrate with OSHA’s ITA for faster submission. For example, OSHA-compliant software can minimize the risk of errors in reporting and help small businesses save time without sacrificing accuracy.

• Engage Employees
  Employees are key collaborators in creating a safer workplace. Ensure they feel empowered to report incidents and provide feedback on safety protocols.

• Invest in Technology
  Digital tools not only help with data accuracy but also integrate with OSHA’s ITA for faster submission. For example, OSHA-compliant software can minimize the risk of errors in reporting and help small businesses save time without sacrificing accuracy.

• Consult Experts When Needed
  Especially in light of new recordkeeping challenges, professional advice can bridge gaps in knowledge or resources. Axiom Medical, for instance, specializes in OSHA compliance and can provide tailored support for your business.

Integrating Successful OSHA Recordkeeping into Your Safety Culture

The updates for 2025 give businesses a chance to reinforce their safety culture and demonstrate their commitment to employee well-being.

If you’re looking for a deep dive into OSHA compliance tailored specifically to any questions you may have, attend our webinar Advanced OSHA Recordkeeping: Avoid Costly Mistakes in 2025 with OSHA Compliance Assistant Specialist Jorge Gomez and Axiom’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Scott Cherry.

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