DART (Days Away, Restricted or Transferred) rates are a yardstick used by Cal/OSHA to measure the accident and workplace injury experience of various workplace activities by standardized industry codes. Generally, DART rates are based on the number of incidents, accidents or illnesses resulting in workers being unable to work, days when their work is restricted while they recover from an injury or illness or they are transferred to “light duty” while recovering from an injury or illness.

DART rates are generally lower for 2025-2026 than last year, when the highest DART rate was 14.5 for cattle ranching; for 2025-2026, the highest DART rate is 9.8 for couriers and messenger services.

Cal/OSHA refers to DART rates to compile a list of “High Hazard Industries” (those with DART rates in excess of 200% of the average DART rate for all employers), which will be the focus of Cal/OSHA High Hazard Unit programmed inspections and outreach by Cal/OSHA’s Consultation Program. Ag and food-related activities on the 2025-2026 high hazard list include beef cattle ranching, poultry and egg production, farming and feedlots, animal slaughtering and processing, commercial bakeries, supermarkets, grocery stores and convenience stores, and warehousing and storage.

FELS members can access a variety of safety resources at FELS.net, including general safety information and tailgate safety training sheets included with FELS’ Newsletter. FELS Labor Management Consultants can also provide customized training for your operation to assist you keeping your employees safe. Please contact FELS at 800-753-9073 or info@fels.net for more information.