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.

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How to Request a Letter of Interpretation

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Date Title Standard Number
Use of insulated hand tools 1910.335(a)(2)(i)
Harness used for fall protection is not considered "apparel". 1910.269, 1926.959
The OSHA injury and illness recordkeeping requirements. 1904 - Table of Contents
An interpretation regarding the proper recording of Cumulative Trauma Disorder (CTD) cases on the OSHA Log 200. 1904 - Table of Contents
Enforcement of the fall protection standard and fall protection options. 1926.501, 1926.502
Compliance for crane hoisted personnel platforms. 1910.179, 1926.550(g)
Hoisting of personnel prohibited while other loads are being hoisted. 1926.550(g)(6)(viii)
Recording of occupational injuries and illnesses occurring to inmate employees in Florida. 1904 - Table of Contents, 1975.5
Requirements for injury cases which result in treatment with prescription medication. 1904 - Table of Contents
Incipient stage fire brigades. 1910.134, 1910.156
Interpretations concerning several OSHA injury and illness recordkeeping issues. 1904 - Table of Contents
NFPA 101-1970, Life Safety Code. 1910.37
Application of OSHA's health standards 1910.1025, 1926.62
Power Roof Cutter on a Built-up Roof. 1926.1101
Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). 1910.1200
Interpretation of the telecommunication standard and the electrical protective equipment standard. 1910.137, 1910.268
Use of toeboards to protect a floor hole and variations in riser heights for stairs. 1910.23, 1910.24
The number of workers necessary to be present when there is a need for an operator to respond to a potential emergency that falls under the scope of the HAZWOPER standard. 1910.120
Occupational Safety and Health Administration's Bakery Equipment Standard. 1910.147, 1910.263
Clarification of Asbestos Standard for construction. 1926.1101