Is It Recordable?
Scenario Q167

Curry Disaster: is it recordable?

Verdict: Not recordable
Published 2021-05-09

Question

A short employee was heating up curry in the microwave, which was placed on top of an extremely high fridge. While reaching up to remove the extremely hot curry, it spilled down and coated their arm. The employee's arm blistered up and required medical treatment beyond first aid. Is it recordable?

Answer

NO. Preparing food or drink for personal consumption is an exception to recordkeeping.

1904.5(b)(2)(iv): You are not required to record injuries and illnesses if (...) The injury or illness is solely the result of an employee eating, drinking, or preparing food or drink for personal consumption (whether bought on the employer's premises or brought in). For example, if the employee is injured by choking on a sandwich while in the employer's establishment, the case would not be considered work-related.

Illustration for the scenario: Curry Disaster

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Illustration for the scenario: Curry Disaster
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This is guidance based on 29 CFR Part 1904 and OSHA letters of interpretation. Facts and details may be altered or fictional. As specified by OSHA, the employer is responsible for the final recordability determination.