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
Crane operator's responsibility during hand banding operations. 1910.179(n)(3)(x)
Interpretation for exit routes that are not level. 1910.37, 1910.37(a)(3)
Chain saw blade guard not required if it inhibits work or is a hazard. 1910.212(a)(3)(vi)(f)
Clarification of "simple test" for mechanical power press control system failure. 1910.217(b)(13)
Request for interpretation for riding blocks on oilfield drill rigs.;Request for interpretation for riding blocks on oilfield drill rigs. 1910.180(h)(3)(v), 1926.550(b)(2)
Wire mesh gloves are not warranted in some poultry processing operations. 1910.132, 1910.138
Flooring requirements for steel erection changed from 25 to 30 feet on June 30, 1974. 1926.105
Punch presses and the revised standard for mechanical power presses. 1910.217
De minimis notices for ladders with rung lengths that do not comply with the Fixed Ladders standard. 1910.27(b)(1)(iii)
Fire protection requirements for tank saddles. 1910.106(b)(5)(ii)
Standards for liquids with a greater than 200 degree flashpoint. 1910.106(a)(18)(ii)(a), 1910.106(a)(18)(ii)(b)
Training and competency of aerial lift operators. 1910.67
Interpretation of Mechanical Power Presses. 1910.217
The applicability of the standards to mechanical goods presses. 1910.212
The 5-inch separation of screws on the covers of the guards for mechanical power-transmission. 1910.219(m)(2)(i)
"Front end loaders are not covered by 1910.178". 1910.178
Garb-el Food Waste Disposal Unit. 1910.212
Mass concentration standard for amorphous silica originally listed incorrectly. 1910.1000
The use of symbols as safety signs. 1910.145
Standard specifically applies to employees exposed to vehicular traffic involving excavation and/or trenching operations only. 1926.651(d)