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.

Filters


Date Title Standard Number
ANSI standard requires Safety-Toe safety shoes meet a compression test and an impact test. 1910.136
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) provisions. 1910.1200
Testing ground fault circuit interrupters. 1926.505
Remote distance, close proximity and other PSM questions. 1910.119
Recording TB related cases on the OSHA 200 Log. 1904 - Table of Contents
Recording of hearing loss on the OSHA Log 200.
Physician vs employee on the employee's ability to perform restricted work activity. 1904 - Table of Contents
Restricted work definitions. 1904 - Table of Contents
Clarification of several recordkeeping issues. 1904 - Table of Contents
Application of 29 CFR 1926.51(f) 1926.51
Use of synthetic fiber slings. 1926.251
Interpretation of the term "in near proximity". 1910.151(b)
Labeling provisions. 1910.1200
OSHA's lockout/tagout standard is not applicable to maritime employment. 1910.147
Operation of a crane in close proximity to overhead power lines. 1910.137, 1926.550(a)(15)
Equivalency of "Roof Creeper Kit Apparatus".
Employers' responsibilities towards temporary employees. 1910.1200
Labels and hazard warnings. 1910.1200
Accidents involving wood or brush chippers.
Safety regulations for roof top rolling scaffolds. 1926.451(h)(4), 1926.451(k)(10), 1910.66, 1926.451(a)(3), 1926.451(a)(7), 1910.28(a)(4)