Understanding OSHA 300 Logs: What to Record, Post, and Submit
OSHA recordkeeping requirements can feel confusing, but maintaining accurate injury and illness logs is a critical part of workplace safety and compliance. OSHA 300 logs help employers track incidents, identify trends, and improve hazard prevention—while also meeting federal requirements.
Here’s what employers need to know.
What Is the OSHA 300 Log?
The OSHA 300 Log (Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses) is used to record specific work-related injuries and illnesses that meet OSHA’s recordability criteria.
Each entry includes details such as:
Employee name
Job title
Date and location of the incident
Description of the injury or illness
Severity (days away from work, restricted duty, etc.)
This log is maintained throughout the year as incidents occur.
What Is the OSHA 300A?
The OSHA 300A is the Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses. Unlike the 300 log, it does not list employee names or detailed descriptions.
Instead, it provides a yearly summary that includes:
Total number of recordable cases
Total days away from work
Total days of job transfer or restriction
Types of injuries and illnesses
Average number of employees and total hours worked
The 300A is a snapshot of your safety performance for the year.
Key Differences: OSHA 300 vs. OSHA 300A
OSHA 300: A detailed, ongoing log of each recordable incident
OSHA 300A: A yearly summary of totals from the 300 log
300 log is kept internally
300A must be posted and, for some employers, submitted electronically
Both are required for covered employers, but they serve different purposes.
When Do You Need to Post the OSHA 300A?
Employers must post the OSHA 300A summary:
From February 1 through April 30
In a visible location where employee notices are typically posted
Even if no recordable incidents occurred (a zero-injury summary is still required)
The form must be certified by a company executive before posting.
When Do You Need to Submit OSHA Logs Electronically?
Some employers are required to electronically submit injury and illness data to OSHA.
Generally:
Certain employers must submit OSHA 300A data annually
Some high-hazard industries may be required to submit 300, 301, and 300A data
Submissions are typically due by March 2 (unless OSHA announces a change)
Requirements depend on company size and industry classification.
How Long Must OSHA Logs Be Kept?
OSHA requires employers to:
Maintain OSHA 300, 300A, and 301 forms for 5 years
Update the OSHA 300 log if classifications change during that time
Why OSHA 300 Logs Matter
Accurate recordkeeping isn’t just about compliance. Reviewing OSHA logs helps employers:
Spot injury trends
Identify problem areas
Improve training and controls
Reduce future incidents and costs
A well-maintained log supports a stronger safety program and demonstrates a commitment to employee health and safety.
Final Reminder
OSHA recordkeeping can be complex, but missing deadlines or incomplete logs can result in citations and penalties. Staying organized, trained, and proactive makes compliance easier—and workplaces safer.
