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How long do we need to keep Accident Reports/Records
Rank: Forum user
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Hi Gang! Been scouring the archives/RIDDOR/Stranks etc., but can't seen to find a definitive duration for holding onto Accident Reports?
Anyone like to point me in the right direction please!
Cheers
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Rank: Forum user
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I'd generally keep them for 3 yrs due to time limits for civil claims - a possible exception could be those accidents that under 18's are involved in as they have 3 yrs from their 18th birthday, if they decide to claim - if their parents already haven't claimed on their behalf.
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Rank: Super forum user
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Anthony is technically correct you must keep them for three years from the date the accident was reported. However, if you dont have many accidents I would advise you keep them indefinately. There is always a good use for records over three years especially if the HSE should some day like to press charges against your employer, it is always handy to have records showing that you have very few accidents and none (hopefully) from the cause of the one they are interested in.
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Rank: Super forum user
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As an aside, I was looking through some old drawers last week and found an accident book dated 1991 - some of the entries are quite entertaining and pleased to see how far the Co. / probably most Co's today have progressed since then.
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Rank: Super forum user
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In addition to the above comments you may consider keeping some records for 40yrs or more, eg accidents/incidents where there may be a latent period before any ill effects materialise. I am thinking here about asbestos exposure but there may be other similar types of event.
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Rank: Super forum user
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Rank: Forum user
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Thank you for the input and all the responses, and the good link to CIPD website Martin.
I was leaning towards the 3 year (civil claims).
I hear the comments on health issues and these should be covered in health surveillance docs which are to be kept for 40+ years
Thank you for your time. Appreciated.
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Rank: Super forum user
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Sallyod
An orderly historical record of RIDDOR and other data can make a very favourable impression in the event that a claim results in your records becoming available to examination by expert witnesses.
What's more, beyond their value in possible litigation, you can analyse historical records like this to glean information necessary to support cases for improvements in the level of economic resources required to achieve agreed OHS targets.
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Rank: Forum user
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40 years. This relates to the Social Security and Pensions Act. Should a person claim through a disability from goverment or existing previous employer then the records need to be available, so I am told...
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How long do we need to keep Accident Reports/Records
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