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
Extended enforcement dates for minimum approach distances to electrical power lines 1910.269(l)(3)(i), 1910.269(l)(3)(ii), 1926.960(c)(1)(i), 1926.960(c)(1)(ii)
IIAR Eye Wash and Shower LOI (Smith Letter) 1910.151(c)
HCS Applicability of lithium battery or a lithium battery-powered devices 1910.1200, 1910.1200(b)(1), 1910.1200(b)(6), 1910.1200(c)
Labeling requirements for absorbent clay products in various packaging configurations 1910.1200(d), 1910.1200(f)(1)(i), 1910.1200(f)(1)(ii), 1910.1200(f)(1)(iii), 1910.1200(f)(1)(iv), 1910.1200(f)(1)(v), 1910.1200(f)(1)(vi)
Hazard Communication classifications 1910.1200(b)(1), 1910.1200(d)(1), 1910.1200(d)(2), 1910.1200 App B
Determining whether daily stretches are considered medical treatment or fist-aid. 1904 - Table of Contents, 1904.7
Requirements for labeling of products shipped for export only to non-U.S. destinations, under the revised Hazard Communication Standard (HCS 2012) 1910.1200(f)(1)
Enforcement discretion for distributors on limited continued use of HCS 1994 labels 1910.1200
Clarification on the recording of injuries involving broken or chipped teeth 1904 - Table of Contents, 1904.7
Clarification on the work-related exemption involving personal tasks outside the assigned working hours 1904 - Table of Contents, 1904.5
Can energized electrical outlets and switches be taped when rooms are painted 1926.405(j)(1)(i)
Inspection Guidance for Poultry Slaughtering and Poultry Processing Establishments 1904 - Table of Contents, 1910 Subpart E, 1910.95, 1910.119, 1910.132, 1910.141, 1910.147, 1910.212, 1910.1200, 1913.10
Incontinence and Feminine Hygiene Products 1910.1030(b)
Determination of when a crane was manufactured 1926.1400, 1926.1416, 1926.1433
PSM Retail Exemption Enforcement Delay Notice 1910.119(a)(2)(i)
Regarding scaffolds height measurement. 1926.452(c)(6), 1910.28(d)(11)
Determining who is the responsible party to record an injury or illness 1904 - Table of Contents, 1904.31
Determining whether an injury or illness is work-related and recordable 1904 - Table of Contents, 1904.4, 1904.5, 1904.7
HCS requirements for RCRA and non-RCRA waste 1910.1200, 1910.1200(b)(6), 1910.1200(c)
Periodic medical exams for electroplating workers exposed to chromic acid 1910.124(h)(4), 1910.1026(k)