Letters of Interpretation

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. Each 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.

These letters of interpretation and the standards they address may not apply to OSHA State Plans. State Plans are required to have standards and enforcement programs that are at least as effective as OSHA's and may have different or additional requirements. Please see OSHA-approved State Plans for more information.

NOTICE:

How to Request a Letter of Interpretation

Filters


Date Title Standard Number
Decision in The Hardaway Co. v. Dole Case. 1910.132(a)
The OSHA standard covering personnel protective equipment, as it pertains to who should pay for an employee's prescription lens safety glasses. 1910.132, 1910.133
Interim enforcement procedures for AIDS, Hepatitis B, and other blood-borne infectious diseases. 1910.132, 1910.22(a)(1), 1910.141(a)(4)(ii), 1910.145
The acceptability of manhole entries through concentric cone or eccentric cone concrete pipe transition sections to underground workplaces. 1910 - Table of Contents, 1910.23(a)(6), 1910.23(c)(1), 1910.27, 1910.132(a), 1910.268
Gloves are required for employees handling chloropicrin; Arsenic containing pesticides and wood preservatives are not within the scope of the inorganic arsenic standard. 1910.132, 1910.1018
Standards applicable to Bell Industries "Carb-Cutter" powered tool. 1910.132, 1910.133, 1910.219, 1910.242(a), 1910.243(a), 1910.243(c), 1926.28, 1926.102(a), 1926.300, 1926.302(c), 1926.303, 1926.304
Hazards requiring foot protection and criteria for protective footwear. 1910.132(a)
Clarification on standards for head protection. 1926.100, 1910.132, 1910.135
The correct testing procedure for tree-trimming saddle belts 1910.132
The employer shall make the appropriate safety footwear available. 1910.266, 1910.132
Applicability of Abrasive Wheel Machinery Guarding Requirements to Scotch-Brite Brand Wheels and Brushes Manufactured by the 3-M Company. 1910.94, 1910.132, 1910.215
Employers not requiring employees pouring iron to wear protective clothing may be cited for a serious violation. 1910.132
The approval and use of "PRO-TEK-TO" safety toe caps. 1910.132, 1910.136
The use of steel mesh gloves by meat cutters at both packing plant and retail levels. 1910.132
The wearing of hard hats. 1910.135, 1910.132, 1926.100
The wearing of personal protective equipment. 1910.132
Information about outdoor wearing apparel to be provided by the employer. 1910.132
The use of protective footwear. 1910.132, 1910.136
OSHA regulations governing the use of personal protective equipment. 1910.132(a), 1926.95(a), 1915.152(a)
An employer is responsible for providing personal protective equipment. 1910.132