Temporary workers are sometimes necessary to get projects completed on time. But what happens when they get injured on the job? There is often confusion among Human Resource Managers, EHS Managers, and Staffing Agencies regarding temporary worker safety and injury reporting responsibilities. A few key points to remember:
It is the responsibility of the “Host” (i.e., worksite employer) to:
- Report injuries incurred by temporary workers on their OSHA 300 logs. These injuries are factored into their injury rate.
- Ensure the temporary worker is adequately trained regarding the hazards of the job site and work responsibilities (e.g. Hazard communication, emergency action, fire extinguisher and bloodborne pathogen training; hazards and use of site specific equipment).
- Ensure they have the proper certifications (e.g. crane worker certification, electrician license) to do the work they are performing.
- Ensure they have adequate PPE that is in good working order and they have been trained in proper use of the equipment.
- Report temporary worker injuries to the Staffing Agency
Responsibilities of the staffing agency:
- Injuries to temporary workers are reported under their workers compensation program.
Best Management Practices
- Clearly define the responsibilities for the Host and the Staffing Agency in the contract.
- Develop a training program specific to temporary workers.
- Maintain records of temporary worker training.
Fines for OSHA violations for temporary workers are most often assessed to the Host. However, a regional OSHA Compliance Assistance Services (CAS) representative indicated that he does recalls 2 incidents in the past 10 years where OSHA sited the Staffing Agency.
For more information about Temporary Worker Safety and Injury Reporting please contact Nick Foreman.