Rigid Splint: is it recordable?

Question

While descending a flight of stairs at work, an employee misses the last step and falls to the floor. During a break, the employee walks to a local convenience store to purchase and use a rigid splint for their arm. Is it recordable?

Answer

NO. Medical treatment must be recommended by the employer or a licensed healthcare professional in order for it to be considered medical treatment beyond first aid for OSHA recordkeeping purposes.

Letter of InterpretationGenerally, OSHA does not consider self-treatment or self-medication by the employee to constitute medical treatment beyond first aid. The treatment must be directed or recommended by the employer or a health care professional to be considered medical treatment beyond first aid.

• Slips, trips & falls