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
The interpretation of the OSHA standards 1910.134 and 1910.156 which address the requirements for workers who are actively conducting operations in atmospheres that are immediately dangerous to life and health. 1910.134(g)(3), 1910.134(g)(4)
Guidance in determining whether elevator pits meet the definition of confined spaces. 1910.146, 1910.146(b), 1910.146(c)(7), 1910.147
Applying Permit-Required Confined Spaces (PRCS) standard to a workplace that is a multi-family residential commercial building 1910.146
Determining whether certain spaces meet the definition of a "confined space" according to the Permit-Required Confined Spaces standard. 1910.146
The (PSM) for Highly Hazardous Chemicals Standard and its applicability to the specific scenarios outlined. 1910.119, 1910.1200
Fall protection for post-frame work. 1926.500(a)
Ozone-resistant electrical protective equipment. 1910.137, 1910.137(a)(1), 1910.137(b)(2), 1910.137(b)(2)(viii), 1910.137(b)(2)(ix), 1910.137(b)(2)(xi)
Bloodborne Pathogens and the issue of latex allergy and latex hypersensitivity 1910.1030
Determining whether certain spaces routinely would be considered confined spaces by applying the (PRCS) standard's definition. 1910.146
OSHA's Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Standard. 1910.120
When permits are required for entry into a permit required confined space. 1910.146
Interpretation of 1910.146 regarding permits and multiple sewer entries along a common line. 1910.146
Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution Final Rule. 1910.269
Recordkeeping issues raised in the Spokane County Health District. 1904 - Table of Contents
Guidance for reporting work related fatalities and catastrophes which occur during over-the-road operations. 1904 - Table of Contents
Several OSHA injury and illness recordkeeping issues. 1904 - Table of Contents
Comments on Stamco Industries Inc., permanent variance application. 1910.217
Compliance Policy Concerning 29 CFR 1910.146. 1910.146
Clarification on whether the ozone process described is covered by the PSM Standard. 1910.119
General concerns in the Construction Industry. 1926 - Table of Contents