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
Update to House Subcommittee on Manpower and Housing on implementing OSHA Instruction CPL 2-2.37 1910.120
Regulations for the calibration of spirometers and audiometers;Regulations for the calibration of spirometers and audiometers. 1910.1043, 1910.95
The Hornell Elektrooptick welding helmet appears to meet the intent of the OSHA standards. 1910.252
Review of NASA hydrogen safety manual.; Review of NASA hydrogen safety manual. 1910.103, 1960.18
Clarification of application and requirements for unobstructed view for 1926.601(a). 1926.601(a)
Labeling provisions in the ethylene oxide final rule will not apply where EtO is used as a pesticide. 1910.1047
Acceptable respirators for exposure to ethylene oxide; Acceptable respirators for exposure to ethylene oxide. 1910.134, 1910.1047
Review of permissible radiation exposure levels 1910.1096
Safeguarding of floor holes between platforms and equipment. 1910.21(a)(1), 1910.23
Strength criteria for guardrail and stairway systems. 1926.500
Clarification concerning allowable drilling distance between loaded holes for a blasting operation. 1926.905, 1926.905(h), 1926.905(i)
Blood-lead level requirements and medical removal protection provisions of the lead standard. 1910.1025
Redrilling Seismic Shotholes For The Purpose of Plugging the Hole to Protect Groundwater. 1926.905
Facial hair in the face sealing area is unacceptable. 1910.134(g)(1)(i), 1910.134(g)(1)(ii), 1910.134(g)(1)(iii)
Health problems probably not due to ionizing radiation exposure. 1910.1096(b)(1)
Information on hazards of dry photocopiers 1910.1000, 1910.1000 TABLE Z-1
Fixed ladder protection and safe entry into storm sewer manholes. 1910.27(d)(2), 1910.27(d)(5)
Hazards requiring foot protection and criteria for protective footwear. 1910.132(a)
Review of testing requirements for rubber insulating equipment. 1910.268(f)(5)
Interpretation of 1926.652, Table P-2 1926.652