Work-Relatedness
In this module, we'll take a look at Section 1904.5 to become more familiar with the concept of "work-relatedness" and how it applies to OSHA 300 Log Recordkeeping.
When is an injury or illness work-related?
An injury or illness is work-related if an event or exposure in the work environment either:
- caused or contributed to the resulting condition, or
- significantly aggravated a pre-existing injury or illness. (Section 1904.5)
Work-relatedness is presumed for injuries and illnesses resulting from events or exposures occurring in the work environment. The work environment includes not only physical locations, but also the equipment or materials used by the employee to perform work, unless 1904.5(b)(2) specifically applies. We'll discuss these exceptions shortly.
When is a workers' compensation case work-related?
A case is presumed work-related if, and only if, an event or exposure in the work environment:
- is a discernible cause of the injury or illness; or
- a significant aggravation to a pre-existing condition.
The work event or exposure need only be one of the discernible causes; it need not be the sole or predominant cause.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-1. A case is work-related if, in the work environment, an event or exposure _____.
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