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If you are a farm employer, you are familiar with the recordkeeping requirements of the California Division of Occupational Health (Cal/OSHA) relating to safety in the workplace. Required records include the OSHA 300 Log and documents about safety hazard analysis, inspections, and accident investigations.

The OSHA 300 log is probably the most familiar to workers and employers. It records all work-related deaths along with injuries and illnesses that require more than first aid treatment. An annual summary of injuries and illnesses is required to be posted in the workplace. Some small businesses (less than 10 employees) and certain industries may have limited exemptions from this recordkeeping requirement.

At State Fund, we realize that keeping track of recordkeeping requirements is a challenge. For that reason we have developed a bulletin that provides instructions on keeping the 300 Log. The State Fund Loss Control Bulletin Required Recordkeeping Procedures is available online at www.scif.com/safety/losscontrol/Article.asp?ArticleID=311.

Cal/OSHA also requires employers to keep records on hazard evaluations and the corrective actions taken to reduce or control safety risks in the workplace. Job hazard analysis evaluates a worker's job tasks, tools, equipment and procedures to determine the level of safety risk and how to control it. Also examine and plan for hazards associated with new tools, equipment, chemicals, tasks, and work environments. Keeping records of these hazard evaluations and risk reduction efforts can document that a business has diligently worked to protect workers. Communicate with employees about these evaluations to make them aware of job hazards and help them work safer.

Periodic workplace safety inspections identify hazards in the workplace. Keep records of the identified hazards and the actions that were taken to correct them. Investigate all employee accidents and near misses to determine the root cause of the accident. Document any corrective actions taken to reduce the risk of further accidents. Take the same steps when investigating employee complaints by recording the investigation process and any necessary corrective actions. Communicate the results of inspections, accident investigations, and complaint response to employees.

Safety training is a key component in making employees aware of the risks and hazards involved with their work tasks along with the appropriate work practices and personal protective equipment that keeps them safe. General safety training may include ergonomics, first aid, CPR, and injury and illness prevention. Specific work task and hazards safety training can target chemical use, fall protection, lockout/tagout, etc. Keep records of all employee safety training.

Today, State Fund is the largest workers' compensation carrier in California, insuring more than half of all employers. State Fund has 17 district offices throughout the state, which provide a full range of services to policyholders and injured workers. We provide coverage to employers of all sizes, from "mom and pop" operations to major organizations.

Since 1943, Farm Bureau and State Fund have been business partners. When your policy comes up for renewal, if you are not insured with State Fund, please be sure to get a quote in our Farm Bureau Group Program. For more information, call toll-free at (800) 773-7667, or check the State Fund Web site at www.statefundca.com.

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