Kicking a Balloon
Question: An employee stops by a company office birthday party during regular work hours to grab some snacks. While attempting to kick a balloon on the ground, they kick the ground instead and break their toe. Is it recordable?
Answer: YES. The injury is work-related and resulted in a broken bone which is considered a severe injury by OSHA.
​Letter of Interpretation: Work-related cases involving cancer, chronic irreversible disease, a fractured or cracked bone, or a punctured eardrum must always be recorded under the general criteria at the time of diagnosis by a physician or other licensed health care professional. OSHA believes that cancer, chronic irreversible diseases, fractured or cracked bones, and punctured eardrums are generally considered significant injuries and illnesses, and must be recorded at the initial diagnosis even if medical treatment or work restrictions are not recommended.