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

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Date Title Standard Number
Background of bloodborne pathogens standard and requirements for emergency medical services. 1910.1030
Low cost of OSHA CD-ROM to the public
Applicability of Bloodborne Pathogens Standard to emergency responders, decontamination, housekeeping, and good samaritan acts 1910.1030
Storage of Pentane in excess of 10,000 pounds. 1910.119
Typical processes in a paint manufacturing facility. 1910.119
The OSHA Hazard Communication Standard and how it applies in various industries. 1910.1200
Background of standards. 1910.120, 1910.1030
Tenth Letter Inspections are no longer required
Review of Panduit's lockout/tagout training video. 1910.147, 1910.331, 1910.333
Compliance policy on unguarded rotary knives used in poultry processing industries 1910.212
Response time and "in near proximity" requirements. 1910.151
Requirements for the bloodborne pathogens standard, 1910.1030. 1910.1030
Guidance on the outside storage and use of Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK). 1926.152
Employers of less than 11 employees are usually exempt from OSHA 200 log. 1904 - Table of Contents
How to record an illness for an employee who becomes ill at a location other than the normal location. 1904 - Table of Contents
Lost work days and prearranged leave (i.e., pregnancy leave or surgery). 1904 - Table of Contents
PQV team leaders and requirements; intrinsically safe camera.
Toe clearances on ladders. 1910.23
Employee "Right to Know" chemical labeling. 1910.1200
Sharps container implicated in needle sticks. 1910.1030