Is It Recordable?
Scenario Q91

Blood Test: is it recordable?

Verdict: Not recordable
Published 2020-10-04

Question

An employee is working at a chemical manufacturing facility and begins having difficulty breathing. He is seen by a doctor who decides to draw his blood and order blood tests for the employee. Is it recordable?

Answer

NO. Blood tests are not considered medical treatment and therefore are not recordable.
1904.7(b)(5)(i) What is the definition of medical treatment? "Medical treatment" means the management and care of a patient to combat disease or disorder. For the purposes of Part 1904, medical treatment does not include:
1904.7(b)(5)(i)(A) Visits to a physician or other licensed health care professional solely for observation or counseling;
1904.7(b)(5)(i)(B) The conduct of diagnostic procedures, such as x-rays and blood tests, including the administration of prescription medications used solely for diagnostic purposes (e.g., eye drops to dilate pupils);

https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/interlinking/standards/1904.7(b)(5)(i)

Illustration for the scenario: Blood Test
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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.