Mandatory Immediate Reporting Requirements for Injuries/Illnesses
September 24, 2026 1:44 PM

The Safety & Compliance division is responsible for reporting specific severe workplace injuries and illnesses to the Illinois Occupational Safety and Health Administration (IL OSHA). We’re sharing this information so you know what to do if a serious workplace injury or illness occurs. 

The following information applies if you or a member of your team experiences any of the following:

• Fatality
• Diagnosed amputation
• Inpatient hospitalization
• Loss of an eye

Immediately, within one hour of being informed that an employee has experienced a critical injury or illness, the notified individual (e.g., supervisor, HR representative, etc.) must call the Safety & Compliance 24-hour emergency phone line at 217-255-2106; you will be asked to provide the following information:

• Building name and address where the incident took place
• Date and time of incident
• Date and time of notification to supervisor/department official
• Name(s) of employee(s) deceased or injured
• Number of fatalities or hospitalized employees
• Name and contact number of the person making the report
• A brief description of the incident

Who Is Covered? 
Individuals receiving a wage, salary, or stipend, such as full- or part-time staff, extra help, and student employees, are always classified as employees by IL OSHA. Others, such as emeritus faculty and fellows, may require further review to determine whether an employee-employer relationship exists (e.g., compensation, level of autonomy in performing their work). It is the responsibility of the unit to promptly determine whether an individual is classified as an employee if any of these situations occur.

Thank you for your assistance with these processes and for increasing awareness within your unit of the need to fulfill these mandatory reporting requirements. Additional resources on injury and illness reporting are available on the Facilities & Services website. If you have questions, contact Safety & Compliance.