Standard Interpretations - Table of Contents Standard Interpretations - Table of Contents
• Standard Number: 1910.309

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at http://www.osha.gov.


November 5, 1979

Mr. J. D. Spooner
Vice President and General Sales Manager
Weil Pump Company
1530 N. Fremont Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60622

Dear Mr. Spooner:

This is in response to your recent telegram addressed to Mr. William Simms concerning OSHA's policy on classification of a wet well as a Class 1, Division 1 location.

The General Industry Standard [29 CFR 1910.399(a)], NEC Sections 500 and 501, applies to situations for OSHA-covered employers. Hazardous concentrations of flammable gases, such as methane and hydrogen sulfide, may exist continuously, intermittently, or periodically under normal operating conditions in a waste-water (containing organic matter) collection system. If at least one OSHA-covered employee is exposed to the hazard, then the wet well pump motor must be of a type indicated in the National Electrical Code Section 501-8(a) for a Class 1, Division 1 location. The employee need not be in the wet well to be exposed to the effects of an explosion.

We hope this information will be helpful to you. If we may be of any further assistance, please feel free to call or write.

Sincerely,


Grover C. Wrenn, Director
[Directorate of Enforcement Programs]

[Corrected 6/2/2005]

Standard Interpretations - Table of Contents Standard Interpretations - Table of Contents