Is It Recordable?
Scenario Q217

Popcorn: is it recordable?

Verdict: Recordable
Published 2021-09-19

Question

While serving popcorn on behalf of the company to visitors, one visitor comments there is too much salt on the popcorn. The employee begins sampling the popcorn to gauge the amount of salt they are adding. While sampling the popcorn, a piece of corn becomes lodged in their throat and they cough profusely until they lose consciousness. The employee is unharmed other than a sore throat. Is it recordable?

Answer

YES. The employee is participating in activities in the interest of the employer and losing consciousness one category of OSHA recordable.

1904.7(b)(1)How do I decide if a case meets one or more of the general recording criteria? A work-related injury or illness must be recorded if it results in one or more of the following:

1904.7(b)(1)(v) Loss of consciousness.

Illustration for the scenario: Popcorn
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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.