Are volunteers considered employees for recordkeeping?

An OSHA letter of interpretation dated 05/13/2005 – Coverage of volunteers, says that if staff are volunteers who receive no monetary or other compensation, it is OSHA’s view that they are not employees subject to coverage under the federal OSH Act.

However, some states that operate their own occupational safety and health laws also extend coverage to certain volunteers and other workers exempt from federal OSHA authority.

Regardless of whether volunteers are covered, OSHA would encourage organizations to ensure that their volunteers receive the training outlined in OSHA’s standards. That way, the organization will reduce the risks and provide a safer working environment for its volunteer workers.