Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

For how long must OSHA Form 300 be retained in the workplace?

1. 3 years

2. 5 years

3. 10 years

4. Indefinitely

The correct answer is: 5 years

OSHA Form 300, which is the Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses, must be retained in the workplace for a duration of 5 years. This requirement is outlined in OSHA's recordkeeping regulations, which specify that employers must maintain these records to ensure that there is an accurate and accessible history of workplace injuries and illnesses. Retaining Form 300 for 5 years allows employers, employees, and regulatory agencies to review trends in workplace safety, identify potential hazards, and ensure compliance with safety standards over time. This retention period strikes a balance between maintaining necessary records for safety analysis and the administrative burden on employers. Keeping these records for a shorter or longer period may not align with OSHA's objective of promoting workplace safety through accessible recordkeeping.