Recording work related joint dislocations

NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only.

July 2, 1992

Mr. John Stephens
SHERT Manager Conoco
[Recipient address omitted]
Dear Mr. Stephens:

Your letter dated January 21, requesting clarification of OSHA recordability for dislocated joints, has been forwarded to my office from the OSHA Dallas Regional Office. My Division of Recordkeeping Requirements is responsible for administering the OSHA injury and illness recordkeeping system nationwide. Please excuse the lengthy delay in our response.

As was pointed out in your letter, the Recordkeeping Guidelines for Occupational Injuries and Illnesses does not specifically address the subject of dislocations. These dislocations must be evaluated using the criteria found on page 42 of the Guidelines to determine if the injury is minor or not minor. Criteria (b) states that an injury is not minor if it impairs bodily function such as the normal use of limbs. Because a dislocation of a joint impairs the normal use of a body part, it would be considered a non-minor injury, and thus be a recordable case if work related.

I hope you find this information useful. If you have any further questions, please contact my staff at (202) 523-1463.

Sincerely,
STEPHEN A. NEWELL
Acting Director
Office of Statistics

[Requester letter reproduced on OSHA page; omitted here.]