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Leading zeros lost from ZIP codes and EINs

Excel reads 02116 as the number 2116. The ITA wants five or nine digits, so the row fails.

Have the log open? Drop it in and get both ITA files with the errors repaired.

Column	Rule	Typical damage
`zip`	Five or nine digits	02116 becomes 2116; 03060-1234 keeps its dash
`ein`	Nine digits, no dashes	04-1234567 keeps its dash; 041234567 becomes 41234567

Fix 1, from OSHA's FAQ: format the column

Select the header of the ZIP column.
Right click, Format Cells.
Category: Special. Choose ZIP Code.
Save the file and upload it.

Fix 2, from the data dictionary: use a text editor

Put an apostrophe in front of the zero in Excel and save, or open the CSV in Notepad and type the zero back. Notepad does not strip zeros.

It comes back

OSHA warns that if you open the file in Excel again, it strips the zeros again. Make the zero fix the last thing you do before upload.

Or skip Excel for the last step

The converter writes ZIP codes and EINs as text, restores a single missing leading zero (4 digits to 5, 8 to 9) and removes dashes. It shows each one so you can confirm it. Upload the downloaded file without opening it in Excel.

Short answers

How do I keep leading zeros in a CSV for the OSHA ITA?

Format the ZIP column in Excel as Special, ZIP Code and save, or edit the CSV in a plain text editor. Do not reopen it in Excel afterwards.

Sources

Read on 2026-11-10. OSHA can change these documents; the link is the authority. Logmend is an independent information tool. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by OSHA or the U.S. Department of Labor, and it is not tax, legal or professional advice.