For most states, every business, company, and employer is required to develop, write, and continually update a document known as the IIPP, or Injury and Illness Prevention Program/Plan. The IIPP must be an official document of the company.

What is the IIPP? The Injury and Illness Prevention Program/Plan is basically what it sounds like: a written program or plan developed by businesses and departments that includes various procedures for preventing on-site, work-related injuries and illnesses. It’s an ongoing strategy that must be updated to reflect any pertinent changes.

The IIPP does not have to be complex or complicated, but each state and/or department will require there to be certain elements present on the document. Some of these elements can include overall management, safety communication, a system for safe work practices, ongoing inspections and evaluations, procedures for reducing hazards and correcting unsafe or unhealthy conditions, proper documentation (including occupational accident and illness reports and investigations), and proper employee training in safety and health.

If you’re not sure how to go about developing your Injury and Illness Prevention Program/Plan, consult the government website of your particular state to search for the information there for specific instructions, requirements, and a general guideline and outline for creating your IIPP.

In addition to creating your IIPP for your workplace, most states require you to train all your employees in overall workplace safety (tailored to your specific place of employment and the nature of the work there), including knowledge of workplace hazards and dangers, as well as safety precautions in order to prevent those hazards. Your workplace safety training must be documented as a part of your overall Injury and Illness Prevention Program/Plan.

Also, larger companies with more than a certain amount of on-site employees (for example, 10) may be required to log or otherwise report any work-related accidents and injuries. Furthermore, it’s important to keep in mind that your IIPP is never a one-time deal; you don’t simply develop, write, and officiate it once and then leave it. Generally, the IIPP is required to be updated on a regular basis to reflect any changes in your operations, overall work environment, safety issues, new or removed hazards, and job positions.

Again, if you’re not sure if your state requires IIPPs or what the specific requirements are where you live, make sure to check with your state’s government website to find out any information you are lacking.