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
Written operating procedures for computerized process control and safety interlock system software. 1910.119
Fall protection during steel erection and the application to the construction industry. 1926.105, 1926.12, 1926.750, 1926.16
Diving decompression tables are acceptable for occupational diving in the United States. 1910 - Table of Contents
Level of personnel protective equipment (PPE) required for medical personnel treating victims. 1910.120
Ground-fault protection for branch circuits. 1926.404(b)(1)
Bloodborne pathogens standard's relationship to grocery retailers and wholesalers. 1910.1030
Degree of hazard associated with low power lasers in construction industry. 1926.54
Gasoline used as a fuel to test run inboard and outboard engines does not fall under PSM. 1910.119
Printing Presses: requirements for normal production and servicing operations 1910.147, 1910.212, 1910.219
OSHA's rules are in the public domain and may be reproduced, fully or partially, without permission from OSHA.
Medical treatment vs First Aid; "to medical personnel" definition. 1904 - Table of Contents
Bloodborne pathogens standard's relationship to labeling of laundry, OnGard Needle recapping device, and laundering uniforms. 1910.1030
Training issues and Hazwoper. 1910.120
Nonconductive siderails for portable ladders for private or contractual fire departments. 1910.333
Bloodborne pathogens standard's requirements and costs. 1910.1030
The use of Billy Pugh baskets in the fishing and fish processing industry. 1910.132
Concerns about necessity for the standard and its requirements and costs. 1910.1030
Metallurgical certification requirements for components to be answered in OSHA Directive. 1910.119
Bloodborne pathogens standard's relationship to oilfield industry and other non-health care industries. 1910.1030
Eyewash fountain in OSHA compliance. 1910.151