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XpertHR, the well-known provider of human resource tools, has released a Top 10 Q&As as well as a Checklist for OSHA Compliance. One of the challenges that employers in Pennsylvania and across the U.S. face, according to XpertHR, is deciding whether or not to record an injury or illness in an OSHA Form 300.

Two types of injuries are supposed to be recorded in the OSHA 300 log: serious injuries, which involve loss of consciousness, days off work, a transfer to another job or a restriction on work; and any injury, major or minor, that leads to medical treatment beyond first aid. Since every injury is unique, XpertHR has given some guidance on how to determine if an injury is recordable or not based on OSHA guidelines.

XpertHR provides certain real-life scenarios to show how employers might evaluate a given situation. These scenarios included cases of an ergonomics injury, an injury sustained during a business trip and an illness caught by a seasonal worker. While there are gray areas in the area of record-keeping, employers must do all they can; otherwise, they may find themselves facing hefty fines.

In the event that workers are injured on the job, they can, for their part, file for benefits under the workers’ compensation program. The benefits include wage replacement and reimbursement for all medical expenses, including the cost of treatments, prescriptions and travel to and from the hospital.

Employers can deny payment if they believe that victims were to blame for their own injuries, though, so it may be wise to hire a lawyer. A lawyer may assist with the filing and with the mounting of any appeals. The lawyer might also explain when victims can consider a settlement, properly known as a compromise and release agreement.