What steps should be taken if an employee is injured on-site?

The appropriate course of action when an employee is injured on-site is to provide immediate medical assistance and report the injury to OSHA if necessary. This approach aligns with best practices for workplace safety and health protocols. Immediate medical assistance can be crucial in addressing the injury and ensuring the employee receives the care they need, which can help prevent further complications or long-term consequences.

Reporting the incident to OSHA is also vital, as this helps maintain compliance with safety regulations. Under OSHA guidelines, employers are required to report certain types of incidents, especially when they result in specific outcomes like hospitalization, amputation, or loss of an eye. This reporting helps in maintaining an accurate picture of workplace safety and allows OSHA to conduct investigations and improve regulations to enhance worker safety industry-wide.

The other options do not prioritize the well-being of the injured employee or adhere to required safety protocols. Waiting for recovery does not address the immediate need for medical care, and sending the employee home without proper evaluation could exacerbate their condition. Reporting the incident only if severe may lead to underreporting of injuries and does not comply with OSHA requirements for documentation of all incidents as specified by regulations.