Utah Contractor Practice Exam

For how long must a contractor retain records for employees exposed to hazardous materials?

1. 10 years

2. 20 years

3. 30 years

4. As long as the employee works for the company

The correct answer is: 30 years

A contractor is required to retain records for employees exposed to hazardous materials for a period of 30 years because the long-term effects of such exposure may not manifest immediately. Federal regulations, specifically those established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), mandate this duration to ensure that there is a comprehensive record of exposure that can be referenced if health issues arise later in life. This extended retention period is designed to protect employees and allow for continued monitoring of health related to hazardous materials, as well as to support any potential claims or health assessments that might occur years down the line. Keeping these records is a critical aspect of workplace safety and employee health management.