Is It Recordable?
Scenario Q36

Metal Splinter: is it recordable?

Verdict: Not recordable
Published 2020-04-04

Question

A machinist catches a metal splinter in his thumb while cleaning debris from his machine at work. He attempts the splinter removal, but ultimately, the onsite Occupational Health Nurse is able to remove the splinter with her tweezers. The nurse cleans the thumb, but is concerned about Tetanus. The employee visits a clinic where he receives a Tetanus shot. Is it recordable?

Answer

NO. OSHA considers the Tetanus shot and use of tweezers for a splinter to be first aid only.
1904.7(b)(5)(ii)(B): [first aid is...] Administering tetanus immunizations (other immunizations, such as Hepatitis B vaccine or rabies vaccine, are considered medical treatment);
1904.7(b)(5)(ii)(K): [first aid is...] Removing splinters or foreign material from areas other than the eye by irrigation, tweezers, cotton swabs or other simple means;

https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/interlinking/standards/1904.7(b)(5)(ii)(B)

https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/interlinking/standards/1904.7(b)(5)(ii)(K)

Illustration for the scenario: Metal Splinter
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This is guidance based on 29 CFR Part 1904 and OSHA letters of interpretation. Facts and details may be altered or fictional. As specified by OSHA, the employer is responsible for the final recordability determination.