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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Date Title Standard Number
Comments on Variance Application Number 2293. 1905.11, 1910.179, 1910.180, 1910.184
Three scenarios and questions regarding on-site natural gas in pipe lines used as a fuel and as a feed stock. 1910.119
The term "interconnection" as it would apply to utilities, steam and electric, used in a covered process. 1910.119
Applicability of the Bloodborne Pathogens standard to emergency response employees. 1910.1030
Storage of flammable liquids and the applicability to the Process Safety Management standard. 1910.119
A draft fall protection plan written in accordance with 1926.502. 1926.500, 1926.502
Recording injuries and illnesses which occur at other employers' premises. 1904 - Table of Contents
Interpretation of OSHA requirements for personal protective equipment to be used during marine oil spill emergency response operations 1910.120, 1910.132
The location and maintenance of OSHA injury and illness records. 1904 - Table of Contents
The applicability of Process Safety Management standard to a 50% solution of Hydroxylamine. 1910.119
The OSHA enforcement guidelines revert to our original position of acceptance of the product with no other qualifications. 1910.151
Concerns with the OSHA June 30 memorandum concerning the application of 29 CFR 1926.652 to house foundation/basement excavations. 1926.652
A letter of compliance from OSHA regarding "HAZCOM" data sheets. 1926.59
The Ciba Self-Medication, Inc. (CSM) facility and the application of OSHA's PSM of Highly Hazardous Chemicals Standard. 1910.119
Update: OSHA Enforcement Policy for Occupational Exposure to Tuberculosis. 1910.134
Shower requirements for the Lead in Construction Standard. 1910.106, 1926.62
The use of crane or derrick suspended personnel platforms (CDSPP) during stack and chimney erection. 1926.550
Clarification on who must receive first responder awareness level training. 1910.120
Statement of compliance from OSHA for a pole-mounted powder actuated tool. 1926.302
An interpretation relative to ingressing and egressing an elevated manlift at an elevated level. 1926.556