Contractor License Practice Exam

For how many years must employers maintain exposure and medical records under OSHA regulations?

1. 10 years

2. 15 years

3. 20 years

4. 30 years

The correct answer is: 30 years

Under OSHA regulations, employers are required to maintain exposure and medical records for a minimum of 30 years. This requirement is in place to ensure that employers provide adequate long-term tracking of workers' exposure to potentially hazardous materials and their health outcomes over time. The rationale behind the 30-year record-keeping period is to protect employees, as many occupational diseases and health issues may take years or even decades to manifest. This extended record retention allows for better tracking of potential health effects that may result from workplace exposure and provides critical data for future medical examinations or legal investigations. Although other options suggest shorter retention periods, these do not align with OSHA's established standards for maintaining such vital records, which prioritize the health and safety of employees over the long term.