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
Design of protective systems for employees working in trenches. 1926.652
Riding manually propelled mobile scaffolds at construction sites. 1926.452(w)
Fall hazards over 25 feet. 1910.28, 1926.105
Use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) underground. 1926.800
Bloodborne Pathogen standard as it applies to personal protective equipment and chemical labeling. 1910.1030
Bloodborne Pathogen standard as it applies to disinfectants. 1910.1030
Bloodborne Pathogen standard as it applies to gloves used as personal protective equipment. 1910.1030
Step extensions for hook-on ladders
Persons employed in the logging industry. 1910.266
OSHA's regulations apply only to employer-employee relationship and not to employer activities that can affect the general public. 1926.52
MSDS requirements in the workplace. 1910.1200
Flatwork ironers. 1910.264
Inspection of chemical accidents. 1910.119
Refresher training, supervisor training and the hazardous waste standard. 1910.120
Waste Isolation Pilot Plant in New Mexico. 1910.120(q)
Chicago Regional Instruction STD 3-9.1
Bloodborne Pathogen standard as it relates to extracted teeth. 1910.1030
Bloodborne Pathogen standard as it relates to care facilities for the mentally retarded. 1910.1030
Heavy-duty pipe, valves and fittings must be used between digesters and blow pits. 1910.261
Ladderway floor openings. 1910.23