Don’t toss that 2025 Form 300A, Annual Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses just yet! Even though April 30, 2026, is the last day to post this notice, California employers still have recordkeeping obligations, including retaining their 2025 Form 300, Form 300A and Forms 301 for five years following the end of the calendar year those records cover. So, it’s now safe to dispose of pre-2020 records, but keep anything more recent on file.
Each year, from February 1 through April 30, California employers are required to post their annual summary of work-related injuries and illnesses in a visible and easily accessible location at every worksite — even if no incidents occurred. In addition to posting requirements, employers must maintain detailed records by logging all job-related injuries and illnesses into Form 300 (Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses) and completing a corresponding Form 301 (Injury and Illness Incident Report) for each qualifying case.
While employers can take down their posted Form 300A on May 1, they shouldn’t simply file it away and forget about it. During the five-year retention period, employers are responsible for updating their Form 300 log to reflect any newly discovered recordable injuries or illnesses.
Even if employers submit their Form 300A data electronically to the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), they are still required to maintain all related records — including Forms 300, 300A, and 301 — for the full retention period.
Additionally, employers must be prepared to provide copies of these records upon request. Employees, former employees and authorized representatives have the right to access the Form 300 log (with personal identifying information removed unless disclosure is permitted) and any current or archived Form 300A summaries. These documents must be provided by the end of the next business day following a request.
Finally, employers should remember that it is unlawful to retaliate against an employee for requesting access to workplace injury and illness records. Maintaining compliance with these requirements not only helps avoid penalties but also supports transparency and workplace safety.
Talia DeMello, Legal Editor, CalChamber
CalChamber members can read more on Recording Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses in the HR Library. Not a member? Learn how to power your business with a CalChamber membership.
