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
Recertifying technicians who do audiometric testing and pulmonary function testing. 1910.95, 1926.58
HMIS for meeting labeling requirements of the HCS. 1910.1200(f)
Requirement for instituting engineering and administrative controls for noise. 1910.95
Letter to DASHOS regarding reprisals. 1960 - Table of Contents
Laser standards applicable to a surgical laser program
Labeling of Lead Chromate Under the Hazard Communication Standard 1910.1200(f)
HMIS use in meeting the in-plant labeling requirements of the HCS. 1910.1200(f)
Evaluation of labeling system which was designed to meet the requirements of the HCS. 1910.1200(f)
OSHA currently has no enforceable standard for paper dust. 1910.1000 TABLE Z-3
DOL representation on the Interagency Committee an Seismic Safety in Construction.
DOL representation on the Interagency Committee on Seismic Safety in Construction.
"Longspan" refers to any joist or truss spanning 40 feet or more. 1926.751
Use of Walkman Radio, Tape, or CD Players and Their Effect When Hearing Protection Is In Use 1910.95(i)(2)(i), 1910.95(i)(2)(ii)
Employees engaged in erection, may ride a material hoist to gain access or egress to their work during the erection. 1926.552
Use of eyeglass inserts or spectacle kits inside respirator full facepieces. 1910.134
Applicability of 1910.95 to cotton gins. 1910.95
Information regarding exposure to lead and sulfuric acid. 1910.1025
Acceptance of closed-circuit self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting. 1910.134
Protection provided by powered air-purifying respirators. 1910.134(g)(1)(i), 1910.134(g)(1)(ii), 1910.134(g)(1)(iii)
Calculating of hearing threshold shifts. 1910.95