Consequently, caution is advised in making annual comparisons of injury rates. It is also suspected that the injury data is of questionable reliability. Because of these questions, no concrete generalizations can or should be made about the commercial whitewater injuries rates. The data reflect reported injuries, and are accurate only to the extent that companies are conscientious about reporting injuries. The reporting forms vary from year to year, and sometimes vary within a given year.
Some companies use the State form, while others use their own form.
In some years there are duplicate reports on file, one on the State form and the other on a company form. Only careful cross checking can prevent double counting of injuries. Many of the forms are incomplete, and forms are often unclear regarding whether first aid was given. Also, its not always clear what constitutes first aid. A substantial difference appears to exist in the amount of writing done by individuals reporting injuries.