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

Filters


Date Title Standard Number
Criteria used to determine training requirements for employees working in contaminated and uncontaminated areas. 1910.120(c)
Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code Handbook. 1910.106, 1910.110
Application of the Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Standard to Specific Operations 1910.120(q)
Regarding the application of the OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard to the labeling of fabricated products. 1910.1200
OSHA acceptance and treatment of abatement methods specified in the proposed standard 1910.28, Fall Protection Systems. 1910.28
Recordkeeping criteria for cumulative trauma disorders. 1910.1020
Use of a strobe light in lieu of an audible backup alarm. 1926.602
Anti-two blocking devices on cranes. 1926.550
CPL 2-2.44B clarifications on effectiveness of EPA registered products against HIV and sleeve lengths to protect dentists
Training requirements for employees doing occasional maintenance or repair work on a disposal site 1910.120(p)(7)
Hazard Communication Standard 1910.1200
Voluntary Clean-up Operations Under 29 CFR 1910.120 1910.120(a)(1)(iii)
Clarification of 1910.184, Wire Rope Slings and their inspection. 1910.184
Radial saw guards and table saw guarding systems. 1910.212
Interpretation on whether "an equivalent electronic information system" could be used in lieu of MSDSs to satisfy the HCS. 1910.1200(g)
Enforcement procedures for occupational exposure to HBV and HIV
Repair/Rebuilding of UL Listed Equipment for Hazardous Locations. 1910.303(a), 1910.399
Interpretation of Substances With High Acute Toxicity as Used in the Occupational Exposures to Hazardous Chemicals in the Laboratory Standard 1910.1450
Fire brigades and portable fire extinguishers standards. 1910.156, 1910.38, 1910.39
"Guidelines for the preparation of warning labels for carbon and graphite electrical products". 1910.1200