EPA’s 2026 regulatory shift: How environmental managers can stay ahead

What were the objections?

Examining the docket, we find several requests for withdrawal of the rule. Some of the concerns raised by commenters included:

• Misalignment with OSHA compliance dates — Commenters remarked that the rule does not align with the phased-in compliance deadlines in the OSHA Hazard Communication (HazCom) standard at 29 CFR 1910.1200(j). In fact, EPA’s compliance date precedes OSHA’s dates, making it “impossible to implement the required changes … for the 2026 reporting cycle,” asserted one commenter. This will force facilities to engage in premature self-classification, argued the commenter. “This misalignment introduces a high risk of inconsistent hazard reporting, undermining both regulatory clarity and the reliability of emergency planning data,” warned another.
• Unrealistic timeline — Commenters pointed out the fast-track schedule. “This timeline compresses the window for implementing critical updates to chemical management software systems [and] procedures [and] reconfiguring data collection processes,” explained a commenter who predicted that facilities will be unable to ensure compatibility between internal chemical management software systems and the new reporting structure, without timely access to updated EPA-provided Tier2Submit^® software.
• Implementation challenges — Facilities would be mandated to re-map each reported chemical (often before SDSs have been updated), claimed one commenter. State agencies would also have to incorporate the new hazard categories into their electronic reporting systems and revise guidance/training materials, according to another.
• New burdens with little benefit — While EPA announced that the rule was deregulatory, one commenter contends that it would make reporting “MORE burdensome.” The commenter also stressed that the rule would “not improve emergency planning or response.” Others emphasized that it exceeds what is necessary for harmonization with the OSHA HazCom standard and that the expanded reporting system would offer “little value.” Yet another commenter noted that using 112 hazard categories instead of 24 would overwhelm the public who have a right to know about the hazards in their communities.
• Rule characterization flaws — One commenter declared that “the rule’s characterization as ‘technical’ does not withstand scrutiny” because it substantively changes what information must be submitted; imposes non-trivial, potentially large costs on both the private sector and state/local programs; and conflicts with OSHA’s phased compliance framework.
• EPA obligation failures — Commenters also observed that EPA failed to assess or recognize “potentially large aggregate costs to the private sector and to state/local [agencies].” They also suggest that the agency estimate paperwork costs, determine whether small entities are affected, and request the Office of Management and Budget to review the rule. Finally, EPA has not meaningfully looked at costs and least-cost alternatives, one commenter said. The commenter gave alternative examples — “phased implementation aligned to OSHA’s schedule, optional dual-category reporting for one cycle, or a later effective date.”

What’s next?

Now, EPA is proceeding with writing a new final rule addressing all public comments. The agency published a parallel proposed rule on the same November date as the direct final rule. That proposal took comments (through December 24, 2025) on the substance of the direct final rule.

That means the agency has all it needs to work on a final rule. EPA made clear that no second round of comments will be collected, but the agency gave no hints as to when it might publish a new final rule.

Until then, the existing CFRs remain in place. In other words, the changes in the November 17, 2025, direct final rule will not take effect on January 16, 2026, as planned because they are now withdrawn.

Note that the direct final rule, had it taken effect, would not have impacted the Tier II forms due on or before March 1, 2026. Rest assured that it is “business as usual” for Tier II reporting due by March 1, 2026. Similarly, SDS reporting requirements continue as is.

For background information, check out our November 25th article, “EPA’s SDS/Tier II reporting now in lockstep with OSHA HazCom.”

Key to remember

On January 9th, EPA withdrew the November 17th direct final rule that would have amended Part 370. The withdrawal is prompted by an adverse comment. A new final rule is in the works.

What counts as “navigable waters” today?

Post-Sackett, WOTUS includes traditional navigable waters, territorial seas, certain interstate waters, impoundments, tributaries that are relatively permanent, and adjacent wetlands that directly abut those waters through a continuous surface connection. Non-jurisdictional ditches do not create adjacency.

Recent changes

• Supreme Court decision in Sackett (May 2023): The CWA covers only waters that are relatively permanent and wetlands with a continuous surface connection to those waters. The Supreme Court rejected the “significant nexus” test.
• Conforming amendments (September 2023): EPA and the USACE removed the significant nexus standard, revised the definition of "adjacent," and clarified that interstate wetlands aren't automatically WOTUS.
• Field guidance (March 2025): EPA and the USACE directed that non-jurisdictional ditches, swales, pipes, and culverts don't create a continuous surface connection. Wetlands must directly abut the water.
• Proposed rule (November 2025): EPA and the USACE proposed definitions for “relatively permanent,” “tributary,” and “continuous surface connection.” If finalized, federal coverage will narrow further.

Where each rule applies

Implementation is split:

• The 2023 amended rule is in effect in 24 states, D.C., and territories.
• The pre-2015 regime + Sackett applies in 26 states, including Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wyoming.

Kentucky now follows the 2023 amended rule except for certain litigants. Always check EPA’s “Current Implementation of Waters of the United States” page to check state status before filing permits.

Why it matters to industry and commerce

• Permitting: WOTUS defines whether projects need Section 404 (dredge/fill) and Section 402 (NPDES) permits. A narrower federal scope can reduce federal permitting, but state and tribal programs may still apply.
• Design: Wetlands separated by berms or uplands and connected only by ditches or culverts likely do not qualify as WOTUS. Early jurisdictional determinations (JDs) and hydrologic documentation are critical.
• Risk: Multistate portfolios face uneven rules due to individual states having their own regulatory framework. The 2025 proposal could further limit federal reach, shifting responsibility to states. Multistate industry and commerce should prepare for state variability and litigation-driven changes.

The legal and regulatory arc: Why definitions keep changing

• Statute: The CWA regulates “navigable waters,” defined as “waters of the United States,” but doesn't define WOTUS.
• Court history: Court decisions have repeatedly reshaped and narrowed the definition of WOTUS. United States v. Riverside Bayview Homes, Inc. (1985) upheld adjacent wetlands; the scope narrowed when Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County v. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (2001) limited isolated waters. Rapanos v. United States (2006) deepened uncertainty by introducing two competing tests, “relatively permanent” vs. “significant nexus,” leaving regulators and courts with ambiguity.
• Rulemaking swings:
  • The 2015 Clean Water Rule broadened coverage.
  • The 2020 Navigable Waters Protection Rule narrowed it, but the rule was later vacated.
  • The 2023 WOTUS Rule was reshaped by Sackett and amended in August 2023.

• Current alignment: The 2023 amendments and 2025 proposal aim to match the Supreme Court’s standards.

Pending actions to watch in 2026

• Final rule: The 2025 proposal’s comment period closed on January 5, 2026. A final rule could standardize terms and further narrow jurisdiction.
• Litigation: Courts may lift or expand injunctions, changing which states apply which regime.
• Funding: Fiscal Year 2025 operations rely on continuing resolutions; WOTUS changes will come through rulemaking, not budget riders.

Practical steps for EHS and project teams

• Confirm your state’s regime before scoping.
• Request or update JDs early; document permanence and direct abutment.
• Track the 2025 proposal and submit comments where unclear.

Key to Remember: WOTUS and “navigable waters” definitions are narrowing, reducing some federal burdens but increasing state variability. For industrial and commercial projects, early jurisdictional work and state-specific permitting plans are essential to protect schedules and budgets.

What’s a RCRA solid waste?

The statutory definition (42 U.S.C. 6903(27)) and the regulatory definition (40 CFR 261.2) explain what’s considered a solid waste under RCRA.

Statutory definition

The act defines solid waste as:

• Garbage;
• Refuse;
• Sludge from a waste treatment plant, water supply treatment plant, or air pollution control facility; or
• Any other discarded material from industrial, commercial, mining, and agricultural operations and from community activities.

It applies to physically solid, semisolid, liquid, and gaseous materials.

Regulatory definition

EPA (per 262.11) requires anyone who generates a solid waste to accurately determine whether the waste is hazardous. The first part of the hazardous waste identification process is to establish whether the material is a solid waste. EPA expanded the definition of solid waste for this purpose.

The regulation further defines solid waste as any material that’s discarded by being:

• Abandoned (defined in 261.2(b)),
• Recycled (defined in 261.2(c)),
• Considered inherently waste-like (defined in 261.2(d)), or
• A military munition (defined in 266.202).

If a material doesn’t meet these criteria, it’s not considered a solid waste and isn’t subject to RCRA regulations. If the criteria do apply, the material qualifies as a RCRA solid waste, and your facility must comply with EPA’s standards for managing either nonhazardous or hazardous RCRA waste.

What’s not a RCRA solid waste?

Many materials are excluded from the definition of solid waste. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that these wastes are unregulated; some are excluded because other regulations apply (for example, industrial wastewater point source discharges are subject to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System rules). Make sure to check if other requirements apply to excluded materials.

Statutory exclusions

RCRA’s definition of solid waste excludes:

• Solid or dissolved material in domestic sewage;
• Solid or dissolved materials in irrigation return flows;
• Industrial wastewater discharges only at point sources (it doesn’t exclude industrial wastewaters collected, stored, or treated before discharge or sludges generated by industrial wastewater treatment); and
• Source, special nuclear, or byproduct material defined by the Atomic Energy Act.

Regulatory exclusions

EPA lists the wastes that are exempt from the definition of solid waste at 261.4. It excludes all of the wastes that the statutory definition does. The agency also exempts other wastes under certain conditions (such as spent sulfuric acid used to produce virgin sulfuric acid, reclaimed secondary materials reused in production, and recycled shredded circuit boards).

Why does this matter?

Knowing what’s considered solid waste is vital to compliance because it tells you if RCRA rules apply to your specific waste.

It’s also the first part of the hazardous waste identification process. Facilities use the process to determine how solid waste is regulated, either as nonhazardous waste subject to RCRA Subtitle D rules or as hazardous waste subject to RCRA Subtitle C standards.

Check state requirements

Most states implement the RCRA waste management regulations. State rules must be at least as strict as federal, and some states may have more stringent requirements. Check with your facility’s state environmental agency to confirm what standards apply.

Key to remember: Defining solid waste is the first step in determining whether RCRA rules apply to a material.

To-do before October 1

Get ready for renewal by taking the following steps now:

• File all your highway use tax returns that are due.
• Pay your taxes. The state will not issue a new certificate of registration if you owe back taxes. Before you apply to renew, make sure that you’ve paid all taxes due under any of the programs administered by the New York State Tax Department, including:
  • HUT,
  • personal income tax,
  • International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA),
  • sales tax, and
  • withholding tax.
• Create an online account if you do not already have one and you want to renew your credentials and pay online (https://www.oscar.ny.gov/).
• Make sure your vehicle registration information is correct and accurate. Review and update your information as soon as possible. Incorrect information will delay the processing of your certificates and decals.

Beginning October 1

Once the renewal period opens, renew your credentials and pay your renewal fees online with One Stop Credentialing and Registration (OSCAR).

Submit your renewal application by November 30, 2024, to make sure you receive your decals in time to place them on your vehicles before January 1, 2025.

If you are already enrolled in OSCAR, use your current OSCAR password to renew online.

If you are not enrolled, visit OSCAR, and select Enroll Now. You must have a United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) number and an employer identification number (EIN).

To renew your registration:

1. Visit the OSCAR website and select HUT Renewal from the Business Type drop-down.
2. Enter your information in the USDOT#, NYS Tax ID#, and Password fields, then select Log in.
3. If you have 300 or fewer vehicles, choose either:
   1. Renew all HUT/AFC Certificates of Registration to renew all your active current series permits, or
   2. Select HUT/AFC Certificates of Registration to renew specific permits.
4. If you have more than 300 vehicles, choose either:
   1. Renew all to renew all your active current series permits, or
   2. File renewal to renew select permits.

If you are unable to renew electronically, you may file Form TMT-1.2, Renewal Application for Highway Use Tax (HUT) and Automotive Fuel Carrier (AFC) Certificates of Registrations and Decals – 25th Series.

Key to remember: Take steps now to renew your NY HUT and ensure you receive your new decals before the current ones expire.

1. Activate your FMCSA Portal account

Carriers should log into their Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Portal account to either create or confirm active status for those accounts. An active Portal account allows you to claim your existing USDOT Number and to create a company account in Motus later this year.

You can log into an existing account by navigating to the Portal login page, and create a new account on the Portal’s registration page.

2. Verify your Portal user list

You can use the “Account Management” tab in the Portal to view and confirm which users have access to your Portal account. Double check to make sure the Company Official listed on the site is either the company owner or the employee who’s in charge of handling FMCSA registration.

Keep in mind that the Company Official’s Login.gov email for the Portal must be the same Login.gov email used for logging into Motus. This is the only way to link your USDOT Number with the Motus account.

The FMCSA recommends ensuring that the Company Official isn’t a transportation service provider or outside consultant.

3. Update your company info

The FMCSA recommends submitting an online Biennial Update (MCS-150) under the Portal’s “Registration” tab. This will make sure the most up-to-date information is on file and help make the transition to Motus even smoother.

Further assistance

For help with any of these steps or answers to your questions about how to manage your Portal account, please see the FMCSA Portal Registration User Guide for more specific guidance.

Digital credentials, but don’t ditch paper yet

Electronic cab cards and permits gained traction in 2025, and many jurisdictions now accept digital copies. However, acceptance isn’t universal. Some states still require paper for OS/OW and specialty permits.

For instance, in many states digital cab cards are accepted for IRP and IFTA, but paper OS/OW permits are still mandatory in most places. Before departure, check your route and prepare both formats as needed. Best practice? Carry both:

• PDFs stored offline, and
• printed copies.

And remember, IFTA decals must remain affixed to the vehicle.

Mileage-based taxes are expanding

States like Connecticut, Kentucky, New Mexico, Oregon, and New York continue to enforce weight-mile and highway use taxes, separate from IFTA. Occasional trips may require single-trip tax permits, while regular routes demand permanent accounts. Expect more states to explore road usage charges as fuel tax revenue declines, so route planning must include these extra credentials.

Take a proactive approach to prevent unexpected fees and delays. Regularly review state DOT websites or reliable industry sources for updates on mileage-based tax requirements, as new pilot programs may be announced mid-year.

OS/OW rules are evolving

Oversize/overweight permitting saw significant updates in 2025. Movement windows, escort thresholds, and weekend/night travel allowances shifted in several states. At the same time, agencies are pushing for automation and harmonization, meaning more permits can be issued instantly, but thresholds still vary widely. Always check state-specific rules before dispatch.

Stay on top of state updates to OS/OW rule changes and automation rollouts. Staying informed will help dispatchers adjust plans quickly and avoid roadside delays.

Tips for transporters

• Plan ahead: Verify which states require paper permits and which allow digital.
• Screen routes: Identify mileage-tax states early and secure the right credentials.
• Stay current: Monitor OS/OW rule changes and automation capabilities to avoid delays.

Key to remember: Compliance isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about keeping freight moving efficiently. With these trends in mind, your permit strategy for 2026 should combine digital convenience, state-specific awareness, and proactive planning.

Positive dilute

If a test result is positive but dilute, you’ll need to treat it the same as a positive test result. You must:

• Not order another test;
• Notify the driver;
• Remove the driver from safety-sensitive functions;
• Give the driver a list of substance abuse professionals (SAPs) from whom the driver can seek treatment;
• Not use the driver again until the driver completes treatment and passes a return-to-duty test; and
• Retain the test results for five years.

The MRO will report the test result to the Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse, the same as any other positive test.

Negative dilute

For results that are negative but dilute, your actions will depend on the creatinine level (creatinine is a waste product found in urine), as follows:

2 to 5 mg/dL — The MRO will contact you to request an immediate re-collection under direct observation.

• If the driver refuses this test, it’s treated the same as any refusal (which means following the steps above for a positive test, including reporting to the Clearinghouse).
• If the driver goes for this follow-up test, the result becomes the official result of record.
• If the result comes back as negative dilute again, the test is declared negative.

Over 5 mg/dL — No retest required. However, you can have a company policy requiring a retest, as long as you communicate it to drivers and enforce it uniformly. If you do retests in this situation, be aware that:

• The test cannot be under direct observation;
• A refusal of the test is treated the same as any other refusal;
• If the result is once again negative dilute with a creatinine level over 5 mg/dL, you cannot retest the driver (i.e., no third test) and it’s deemed a negative result.
• If the result is negative dilute with a creatinine level of 2 to 5 mg/dL, the MRO will demand yet another test immediately under direct observation.

A positive, adulterated, or substituted test result on any retest becomes the result of record, and all the consequences of a drug testing violation apply.

Key to Remember: If a driver’s drug test result comes back as dilute, be sure you know what to do next.

Federal law

Under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), employers may deduct overpayments from employees’ future wages, even if that would result in the employees being paid below the minimum wage.

Big lump-sum deductions, however, might not sit well with employees, risking negative employee relations and trust.

State laws

Just because the federal FLSA allows related deductions, many state laws have limits on how much employers may deduct.

In California, for example, employers may not make deductions to recover overpayments unless the employer and employee have a written agreement, and the employee voluntarily consents to the deduction. The deduction also can’t cause the employee’s pay to fall below the state’s minimum wage.

An ounce of prevention

To help prevent overpaying employees, employers may take a few steps, such as the following:

• Automate payroll processes as much as possible;
• Audit all related processes and tools regularly;
• Have clear timekeeping and payroll policies; and
• Encourage employees to review their payments and paystubs regularly, and ask them to report any issues quickly so mistakes can be resolved.

Key to remember: Mistakes happen, including those that result in overpaying employees. Employers can, however, take steps to fix them and prevent them from recurring.

Focus on filing

A good place to start the organizational process is by auditing employee files. Employee personnel files need to be organized in a manner that allows for quick access, whether electronic or paper files. The information also needs to be as complete as possible.

These files might be the source of a company’s defense if an employee ever decides to lodge a complaint with a government agency or file a suit against the employer. If the information isn’t accessible or complete, an agency representative could see this as the employer’s noncompliance with a law, or a judge may see this as a lack of evidence of fair employee treatment.

No matter how HR professionals organize their files, some information must NOT be included in the general employee files. Employee and applicant medical information, for example, must be kept separate and confidential.

3 focus areas to start getting more organized this year

1. FLSA recordkeeping. The federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) has certain recordkeeping requirements. The FLSA doesn’t require a particular form for the records, but does require that the records include certain identifying information about each employee and data about the hours worked and the wages earned. The law requires this information to be accurate. Basic payroll and identifying employee data include such information as:

• Name,
• Address,
• Occupation,
• Rate or basis of pay and terms of compensation (i.e., benefits),
• Daily and weekly hours worked per pay period,
• Additions to or deductions from wages, and
• Total compensation paid.

Employers must keep payroll records and collective bargaining agreements for at least 3 years. Records on which wage computations are based should be kept for 2 years. This would include such data as time cards, wage rate tables, work and time schedules, records of additions to or deductions from wages, etc. These records must be open for inspection by the government representatives, and may be kept at the place of employment or in a central records office.

2. EEOC recordkeeping. The federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) regulations require that employers keep all personnel or employment records for 1 year. If an employee is involuntarily terminated, their personnel records must be retained for 1year from the date of termination. Additionally, employers must keep any employee benefit plan (such as pension and insurance plans) and any written seniority or merit system for the full period the plan or system is in effect and for at least 1 year after its termination.

3. FMLA recordkeeping. Covered employers are required to make and keep records about the company’s obligations under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) in accordance with the FLSA recordkeeping requirements. The FMLA also refers to the confidentiality provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008. Generally, employers must keep FMLA-related records for at least 3 years. No particular order or form of the records, however, is required. Other FMLA information to keep includes such details as:

• Dates when employees take FMLA leave. Employers may want to include copies of timesheets or records, written requests for leave, etc.
• Specific hours of leave if it’s taken in increments of less than one full day.
• Written copies of employee notices of leave they give to the employer and copies of all required general and specific written notices given to employees.
• Any documents, including written and electronic records, describing employee benefits or a company’s policies and practices regarding the taking of paid and unpaid leave.
• Premium payments for employee benefits.
• Records of any disputes between the employer and an employee regarding the designation of leave as FMLA leave, including any written statement from the employer or employee of the reasons for the designation and for the disagreement.

The bottom line

Remember, employers may keep records either electronically or have physical paper copies, but either method needs to be locked down and kept secure. Only designated personnel should be able to access the information within the rules of each applicable law.

It’s also good to set up a “purge” schedule to go through and discard old records once the time requirements have passed.

Key to remember: If getting more organized is a goal for this year, January’s a great time to get started. Focusing on the recordkeeping requirements of the FLSA, EEOC, and FMLA can help set the tone for the year.

Consecutive 12-month leave years

Eligible employees may use FMLA leave for bonding with a new child any time during the first year of the child's birth or placement. In addition, eligible employees are entitled to 12 workweeks of leave during each new FMLA leave year.

As a result, depending on the leave year an employer chooses, an employee may be entitled to more than 12 weeks of leave for bonding with a child during consecutive 12-month leave years. This means an employee could “stack” their leave time.

For example:

Rebekah's employer uses a 12-month period from July 1 through June 30 for its FMLA leave year. Rebekah has a baby on April 29 and uses FMLA leave for 8 weeks from her child's birth through June 30.

During the next leave year that begins July 1, Rebekah remains eligible for this same FMLA leave reason and stays on leave for another 8 workweeks. She also reaches an agreement with her employer to take another 4 workweeks of reduced-schedule leave to bond with her child before her child's first birthday. Employees may use FMLA leave for bonding intermittently or to work a reduced schedule, only if the employer agrees.

If, in the new leave year, Rebekah needs FMLA leave for a different reason, her employer would recalculate her FMLA eligibility.

Key to remember: Depending on when the leave begins and which method employers use to calculate the 12-month leave year period, employees could end up with more than 12 weeks of FMLA leave for bonding.

A closer look at the top serious violations

Machine guarding – Types of guarding methods. Operating machinery or equipment can be extremely dangerous when it’s not properly guarded or maintained. Injuries involving machinery or equipment often result in death or permanent disability. One or more methods of machine guarding must be provided to protect the operator and other employees in the machine area from hazards such as those created by point of operation, ingoing nip points, rotating parts, flying chips and sparks. Examples of guarding methods include barrier guards, two-hand tripping devices, and electronic safety devices.

Hazard communication – Written program; information and training; safety data sheets (SDSs) readily accessible. HazCom gives employees the right to know the hazards of the chemicals they’re exposed to. Covered employers must develop and implement a written program that describes how they’re complying with the provisions of 1910.1200, provide information and training, and ensure SDSs are readily accessible in employees’ work area throughout each shift.

Lockout/tagout – Procedures shall be developed; periodic inspection. Workers servicing or maintaining machines or equipment may be seriously injured or killed if hazardous energy is not properly controlled. Employers must develop energy control procedures for machines and equipment when they’re being serviced or maintained, following the criteria in 1910.147(c)(4). Procedures must be reviewed annually (the “periodic inspection”) to ensure they’re being followed and to correct any deficiencies.

Powered industrial trucks (PITs) – Operator competency. Employers must ensure that each PIT operator is competent to operate a powered industrial truck safely, as demonstrated by the successful completion of the training and evaluation specified in 1910.178(l)(1). Certification of training and evaluation must include the name of the operator, the date of the training, the date of the evaluation, and the identity of the person(s) performing the training or evaluation.

Respiratory protection – Written program; medical evaluation. In workplaces where respirators are necessary to protect the health of the employee or whenever respirators are required by the employer, a written respiratory protection program with worksite-specific procedures must be developed and implemented, following the requirements in 1910.134(c)(1). Employers must provide a medical evaluation to determine the employee's ability to use a respirator, before the employee is fit tested or required to use the respirator in the workplace.

Medical services and first aid – Eye and body flushing facilities provided. Where the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body must be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use. OSHA uses the associated ANSI standard, ANSI Z358.1: Emergency Eyewash & Shower Standard, during inspections when evaluating the suitability of emergency eyewash and shower protection provided by the employer.

Key to remember: Employers who fall under 29 CFR 1910 can use OSHA’s list of most frequently cited serious violations to strengthen their safety programs and protect their workforce.

For a deeper dive, check out our related article: Avoid $50K in 'serious' OSHA fines: Learn where others slipped up in FY 2025.

When does a job transfer or restriction become recordable?

OSHA’s rule in 29 CFR 1904.7 states that an injury or illness is recordable if it results in days away, restricted work, or a job transfer. “Restricted work” means the employee cannot perform one or more routine job functions or cannot work a full shift because of the injury.

“Routine job functions” are the tasks an employee regularly performs as part of their job, typically at least once a week. So, even if a restriction limits only occasional or non-routine duties, it may not count as restricted work. But if the restriction prevents the employee from doing routine tasks, then it is recordable.

As an example, Rachel strains her wrist lifting boxes. Her doctor says, “No lifting over 10 pounds for two weeks.” Rachel still comes to work, but instead of her usual warehouse duties, she does light clerical tasks. Because this restriction prevents her from performing normal job functions, it counts as restricted work and must be logged on the OSHA 300 form. However, if Rachel’s normal job functions did not involve lifting more than 10 pounds, say she primarily worked at a computer, then the restriction would not impact her routine tasks and would not be recordable.

What about restrictions that aren’t injury-based?

This is where confusion often creeps in. OSHA clarified in a 2016 letter of interpretation that restrictions imposed for reasons unrelated to physical ability, such as protecting product quality or operational efficiency, are not recordable. For example, Brandon cuts his finger but can still do his job. The company keeps him out of a sterile area to avoid contamination, not because he’s physically limited. OSHA says that’s not a recordable restriction because it’s about quality control, not capability.

Additionally, OSHA clarifies an important point about productivity. A slowdown in speed or efficiency does not make a case recordable as long as the employee can still perform all of their normal job functions. Recordability is based on physical limitations, not business-driven decisions or reduced output.

For example, if Ed injures his arm and works more slowly but still completes all his usual tasks, that’s not restricted work. Productivity loss alone doesn’t trigger recordability, the key factor is whether the injury prevents the employee from performing routine job duties.

How does counting days away, restrictions, or transfer work?

Once you determine a case is recordable, OSHA requires you to start counting the day after the injury or illness occurs and continue until the employee resumes all routine job functions without restriction. This is spelled out in 29 CFR 1904.7(b)(3)(vii). The count includes calendar days, not just scheduled workdays, and weekends and holidays are part of the total.

For example, if Cindy spends three days doing inventory instead of her usual production work, those three days go in the OSHA 300 log. If her restriction spans a weekend, those days count too, even if she wasn’t scheduled to work.

OSHA also sets a cap of 180 calendar days for combined totals of days away from work, restricted work, and job transfer. If the injury or illness continues beyond that point, you stop counting once the overall total reaches 180 days, even if the employee remains under limitations.

What if an injured employee leaves the company?

This scenario often creates uncertainty for supervisors. If an injured employee leaves, what happens to your OSHA log? OSHA addresses this in 1904.7(b)(3)(viii). The rule is straightforward but requires a bit of determination from the employer:

• If the departure is unrelated to the injury, you stop counting restricted days and days away from work on the employee’s last day. For example, Jeff accepts a promotion at another company. His wrist injury had him on light duty, but his decision to leave was for career advancement. You record the days up to his last shift and stop there.
• If the departure is related to the injury, you must estimate the total number of days the employee would have been restricted or away and record that estimate. OSHA expects employers to make a reasonable projection based on medical advice and typical recovery times. For instance, Gina resigns because her back injury prevents her from performing essential job functions. Her doctor anticipated six weeks of restrictions. Even though she left after two weeks, you record the estimated six weeks.

OSHA emphasizes that these estimates should be made in good faith. You’re not expected to predict the future perfectly, but you should use available information, such as physician recommendations or similar cases, to make a reasonable determination.

Key to remember: OSHA recordkeeping can seem complex, and many times create more questions than answers, but the agency offers clarity through its letters of interpretation. When in doubt, rely on these official resources, they’re designed to help employers make accurate, compliant decisions.

Walking-Working Surfaces

For many years, employers were required to post a plate on mezzanines, platforms, or similar work areas showing the weight capacity or load rating approved by a building official. OSHA removed that requirement in 2017, so these capacity plates are no longer required.

The current regulation at 1910.22(b) simply requires employers to ensure that each walking-working surface can support the maximum intended load. OSHA reasoned that builders consider maximum loads during design and construction.

Employers can certainly leave existing capacity plates in place and may want to check local building codes, which may still require a weight capacity posting.

Storage areas and racks

OSHA doesn’t explicitly require posting storage areas or shelves with weight capacities. Still, the agency has cited employers for unposted storage systems, particularly if a collapse occurred.

The weight of stored materials must not exceed the safe weight limits of shelving. Most industrial shelving is already labeled, helping identify capacities for each shelf or shelving unit. For shelving not labeled or built in-house, OSHA recommends determining capacity limits using sound engineering calculations, then clearly marking storage equipment with safe load capacities. Again, this isn’t technically required, but it can go a long way toward reducing human error and avoiding a possible General Duty Clause citation.

Other storage hazards

OSHA also looks to ANSI/RMI MH16.1 – Specification for the Design, Testing and Utilization of Industrial Steel Storage Racks, which recommends securing storage racks of various types and heights. This increases their stability and decreases the potential for tipping over.

Damaged shelves or supports, improper installation, and unsafe modifications can all increase the risk of worker injury. Storage shelving must be installed appropriately, limited to a safe height, secured properly, and guarded to prevent damage.

Mitigating shelving hazards

Employers are responsible for identifying and mitigating shelving hazards in the workplace. Some effective ways of protecting workers include:

• Inspect shelving and racking regularly for damage or defects. Train workers to report any damage, loose bolts, or other concerns immediately.
• Remove any damaged shelving or immediately isolate the affected area until it can be repaired or replaced.
• Label shelving and storage racks with load capacities and do not exceed storage capacities.
• Install guards on shelving uprights to prevent damage from incidental vehicle or forklift contact.
• Ensure materials stored on shelving, racks, and other storage devices are stacked, blocked, interlocked, and limited in height so they remain stable and secure.
• Ensure that materials don’t protrude from storage areas, such as boards or other items extending into pedestrian or vehicle aisles.
• Train workers to store heavier loads on lower or middle shelves and lighter loads on higher shelves.

Every employer that maintains sales stock or manufacturing supplies needs a safe and secure way to store those items. Following these best practices helps ensure that the storage itself doesn’t create additional hazards to workers.

Key to remember: Although OSHA no longer requires posting load ratings on working surfaces, employers should have load ratings on storage areas to help prevent overloading.

Applying exemptions

Employers with 10 or fewer employees do not need to maintain a 300 Log, but this exemption counts all employees at all locations. If an employer has three locations, each with four employees, it has more than 10 employees and the size exemption will not apply.

The other exemption is based on each establishment’s North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code. Employers might have some establishments that must keep a 300 Log and others that do not, like a manufacturing facility that maintains a 300 Log and an administrative office that is exempt.

In some cases, an establishment’s activities fit under more than one NAICS code, like a manufacturing plant with a distribution warehouse. OSHA advises using the code that either generates the most revenue or has the most employees, whichever the employer deems most applicable. Employers should check their workers’ compensation coverage to see which code they use.

For more information, see our article Which NAICS code should you use for OSHA?

Traveling and remote workers

If an employee has a recordable incident while visiting another establishment, the employer must record the case on the 300 Log for the establishment where the incident occurred, even if the employee normally works elsewhere.

However, if an employee has a recordable incident and is not at an establishment (such as traveling), the employer must record the case on the 300 Log for the establishment where the employee normally works.

Remote workers must be linked to a fixed establishment, typically the location from which they are supervised or receive job assignments. Recordable incidents to remote workers must be recorded on the 300 Log of the establishment to which they are linked. Employers also count remote workers as employees of the linked location, even if they work in another state.

Annual summaries

On February 1, each establishment that maintains a 300 Log must post a 300A annual summary for the previous calendar year. This is required even if the location has 10 or fewer employees, and even if the establishment had zero recordable incidents. Employers cannot combine multiple establishments on a 300A (although short-term establishments can be combined).

If some employees split their work time between locations, employers may distribute their hours worked between locations. However, if someone spends only a small amount of time visiting various locations, the employer may count all hours worked at the primary or linked location. Usually, this would not significantly impact the total hours worked for an establishment.

For more information, see our article Completing the 300A: Tips for the mathematically challenged.

OSHA requires a posting a physical copy of the 300A in the workplace until April 30, but employers may also post the summary on a company intranet for remote workers. OSHA does not require sending the 300A to remote workers who never visit the site, although California does require that.

Key to remember: Employers with multiple locations should confirm that the NAICS code for each location is correct, verify that incidents to traveling or remote workers are properly recorded, and ensure that each covered establishment posts a 300A as required.

OSHA’s announcement on helmets vs. hard hats

OSHA released a Safety and Health Bulletin (SHIB 11-22-2023) on November 22, 2023, detailing the key differences and benefits of using modern safety helmets over traditional hard hats.

And just a few weeks later, in the December 11, 2023 Trade Release, the Agency announced it would now require its inspectors to wear Type II head protection, which is also commonly referred to as safety helmets.

The two main benefits of Type II safety helmets

The November 22, 2023 SHIB discussed two main benefits of choosing modern safety helmets over traditional hard hats -- the construction of materials and the use of chinstraps.

And while OSHA has recognized the benefits of Type II safety helmets, and is actively taking steps to protect its own employees, it’s important to understand that there is not a new requirement for employers to make the switch to safety helmets.

That being said, a growing number of employers have recognized the benefits of added head protection and are choosing to use Type II helmets for their workers. In addition, some clients are starting to contractually require their construction contractors to make the switch as well.

Understanding the different types of head protection

Hard hats will have a Type I or Type II rating on the manufacturer’s sticker. These markings are based on ANSI Z89.1’s impact ratings.

Type I hard hats protect from objects or impacts from the top center area of the hard hat and are often used in work areas with no lateral head impact hazards.

Type II hard hats, on the other hand, offers protection from both top and lateral impacts and objects and is often found on construction job sites or complex general industry settings where workers face multiple head contact exposures.

Hard hats are classified based on their level of voltage protection. See the chart below.

Choosing the right head protection for your employees

Employers should conduct a job hazard analysis and/or a PPE assessment to determine which style hard hat is best for their workers. In general, OSHA recommends the use of Type II safety helmets at the following locations:

1. Construction Sites: For construction sites, especially those with high risks of falling objects and debris, impacts from equipment, or slips, trips, and falls, safety helmets have enhanced impact resistance and additional features that offer superior protection compared to the components and construction of traditional hard hats.

2. Oil and Gas Industry: In these sectors where workers face multiple hazards, including potential exposure to chemicals and severe impacts, safety helmets with additional features can provide comprehensive protection.

3. Working from Heights: For tasks or jobs that involve working from heights, safety helmets offer protection of the entire head and include features that prevent the safety helmet from falling off.

4. Electrical Work: For tasks involving electrical work or proximity to electrical hazards, safety helmets with non-conductive materials (Class G and Class E) provide protection to prevent electrical shocks. However, some traditional hard hats also offer electrical protection.

5. High-Temperature Environments: In high temperatures or where there is exposure to molten materials, safety helmets with advanced heat-resistant properties can provide additional protection to workers.

Key to remember: While there isn’t a new requirement for safety helmets, employers should review their workplace hazards to determine which style of hard hat will best protect their employees.