December 2025 Industry News: OSHA Reporting & Holiday Party Etiquette

As the year winds down, employers face a mix of operational, compliance, and cultural considerations. From responding correctly to serious workplace incidents to hosting safe and respectful holiday celebrations, staying informed can help reduce risk and reinforce your organization’s commitment to employees.

Below are two timely topics every employer should have on their radar this December.

OSHA Incident Reporting Requirements: What Employers Need to Know

When a serious workplace incident occurs, the priority is always employee care. However, employers must also comply with OSHA’s federal incident reporting requirements. Understanding these rules can help you avoid costly citations, manage claims more effectively, and demonstrate a strong safety culture.

Incidents That Must Be Reported to OSHA

Under OSHA’s Recordkeeping and Reporting Rule (29 CFR 1904.39), certain work-related incidents must be reported directly to OSHA within strict timeframes.

Report within 8 hours:

• Work-related fatalities

• Fatalities that occur within 30 days of the incident (still reported using the 8-hour timeframe)

Report within 24 hours:

• In-patient hospitalizations for treatment (not observation or diagnostic testing only) that occur within 24 hours of the incident

• Amputations, including fingertip amputations with or without bone loss

• Loss of an eye, including removal or permanent loss of vision

When Does the Reporting Clock Start?

The reporting deadline does not begin at the moment the incident happens. Instead, it starts when the employer knows both that:

1. A work-related incident occurred, and

2. The incident resulted in a reportable outcome.

For example, if an injury occurs at 2:00 PM but the employer does not learn of a hospital admission until 6:00 PM, the 24-hour reporting window begins at 6:00 PM.

How to Report an Incident

Employers can report incidents to OSHA by:

• Calling OSHA’s 24-hour hotline at 1-800-321-OSHA

• Contacting the nearest OSHA Area Office

• Submitting the online reporting form at osha.gov/report

Why Timely Reporting Matters

Missing OSHA reporting deadlines can be expensive. As of 2025, penalties for serious violations can exceed $16,000 per violation, while willful or repeated violations can exceed $160,000. Timely reporting not only avoids penalties—it also reflects a proactive approach to workplace safety.

Office Party Etiquette: Preventing Sexual Harassment During the Holidays

Holiday parties and year-end celebrations are a great opportunity to recognize employees and build morale. However, they also come with legal and behavioral risks that employers should not overlook.

Harassment Policies Apply—Even Off-Site

Federal and state laws prohibiting workplace harassment and sexual harassment apply regardless of where an event is held. A company-sponsored holiday party—whether on-site or off-site—is considered an extension of the workplace.

Unwelcome physical contact, sexual jokes, suggestive comments, or other inappropriate behavior can quickly turn a festive event into a serious HR issue. Depending on the severity, employees may face disciplinary action or even legal consequences.

Best Practices for Employers

To help ensure a safe, respectful environment for everyone, employers should:

• Set clear expectations in advance. Remind employees that workplace policies remain in effect.

• Limit alcohol consumption or consider alcohol-free alternatives.

• Review and communicate harassment policies, including how to report concerns.

• Train managers to recognize and address inappropriate behavior promptly.

If a complaint is received or misconduct is observed, follow your harassment policy immediately. Prompt investigation and appropriate corrective action are critical.

Annual anti-harassment training is strongly recommended. As the year comes to a close, now is an excellent time to schedule your 2026 training and reinforce expectations for a respectful workplace.

About Risk Advisor Konnect

Risk Advisor Konnect is a service provided by our agency that offers helpline access for questions related to:

1. Safety and OSHA compliance

2. Human Resources

3. Claims management

4. DOT and FMCSA compliance

Clients regularly reach out with questions such as:

• Do I need to keep OSHA 300 logs or report this incident to OSHA?

• An employee was injured in an auto accident while traveling to a customer—should this be an auto claim or workers’ compensation?

• How can we ensure our drivers meet FMCSA qualification standards?

• An employee reported harassment—what steps should we take next?

As we head into the new year, having expert guidance just a phone call away can make all the difference.

 

All Lester Insurance Commercial Customers have access to Risk Advisor Konnect

Call 888.976.7565 or email myriskadvisor@keystoneinsgrp.com