Is It Recordable?
Scenario Q133

Broken Tooth: is it recordable?

Verdict: Not recordable
Published 2021-02-14

Question

An employee hits himself in the mouth with a wrench and breaks a tooth. The tooth is artificial and requires a dentist to glue it back on. Is it recordable?

Answer

NO. Damage to artificial or mechanical devices, such as dentures, eye glasses, canes, or prosthetic arms or legs, would not be considered an injury or illness under Part 1904 because they are not considered part of the employee and only injuries to employees should be recorded.

Letter of Interpretation: ...repair or replacement of an artificial device, such as a denture would not be considered a recordable injury or illness under Part 1904.

Illustration for the scenario: Broken Tooth

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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.