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
OSHA does not have jurisdiction over aircraft crews. 1975.1
Using X-ray fluorescence for analysis of lead in paint and applicability of other agencies lead levels. 1926.62, 1926.62(d), 1926.62(d)(2), 1926.62(d)(2)(i)(A)
OSHA's consultation program;assistance for smaller employers. 1908.5(b)
OSHA enforcement policy on vertical food mixers. 1910.263, 1910.212(a)(1), 1910.212(a)(3)(ii), 1910.147, 1910.147(a)(2)(ii)(A), 1910.147(a)(2)(ii)(B), 1910.147(a)(2)(iii)(A), 1910.305(g)
U.S. Postal Service's equivalent to the OSHA 101 form.
Accessibility of toilet facilities in temporary labor camps. 1910.142(d)(2)
Applicability of 1910.146 to fall hazards into pits. 1910.146, 1910.146(b), 1910 Subpart D
Insulation issues: definition; plastic sheaths;and guarding requirements. 1926.416(a)
CPR/first aid training and "working alone" provisions of 1910.269 1910.151, 1910.151(b), 1910.151(c), 1910.269, 1910.269(b)(1), 1910.269(l)(1)
Glass Capillary Tubes: Joint Safety Advisory About Potential Risks. 1910.1030
Anchoring of fall arrest system to aerial lifts; fall arrest vs. restraint systems. 1926.451(g), 1926.453(b)(2)(v), 1926.502(d)
Clarification of systems for electronic access to MSDSs 1910.1200(g)
Requirements for recording an instantaneous friction blister.
Retention of medical records for companies ceasing to do business. 1910.1020(h)
Employers must evaluate prior training and ensure safe powered industrial truck operations. 1910.178(l)
Undervoltage protection required for woodworking equipment. 1926.304
Acceptable alternative to metal guards in mechanical power-transmission apparatus. 1910.219(m)
Overlapping of scaffold planking. 1926.451(b)(7)
Using a "generic type" certificate of analysis for Grade D breathing air. 1910.134(i)(4)(ii)
Correct placement of air sampling cassettes on employees performing welding operations. 1910.252(c)