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
Use of Air-Purifying Respirators In Dangerous Concentrations of Gases Or Vapors 1910.134, 1910.134(c), 1910.134(d), 1910.134(g), 1910.134(h), 1910.134(k)
Use of horizontal members of the end frames of metal scaffolds as safe access. 1910.28, 1910.29
Procedures a demolition and salvage constructor could employ in lieu of providing material safety data sheets for specific metals. 1910.1200(g), 1910.1200(h)
Provision of MSDSs for consumer products used in the workplace 1910.1200(g)(7)
Application of certain provisions of 1910.120 in light of specific emergency response requirements under RCRA. 1910.120
Definition of "article" under the HCS in reference to medical supplies and devices. 1910.1200
Certification of Nurse Call Systems 1910.303(a)
Exemption of employees who work at the perimeter of a hazardous waste site from training requirements of 1910.120(e). 1910.120(e)
Retention requirements for x-rays. 1910.1020
Clarification on OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard. 1910.1200
Policy determination on military and uniquely military exemptions for the U. S. Coast Guard. 1960.2
Asbestos and the Hazard Communication Standard 1926.59 , 1926.58
Benzene Standard - Clarification of scope as pertains to Gasoline operations. 1910.1028(a)(2)(i)
Respiratory Protection Tables 1910.1028, 1910.1025
Currently Approved Alternate Standards In Use by Agencies
Noise inspection conducted at Robben's Roost, Louisville, Kentucky. 1910.95
Audiometric earphones to be reviewed for acceptability for audiometric testing. 1910.95(h)(2)
Interpretation of 1926.1101, training and medical surveillance as condition of employment. 1926.1101
Requirements under the formaldehyde standard for quick drench showers, eye wash facilities, emergency plans and sampling 1910.1048
Application of 1910.120 to sewer overflow station construction site with contaminated soil. 1910.120