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
The ASME Pressure Vessel Code. 1910.261
Clarification on the applicability of 1915.115(a) and 1918.13(a) in marine construction. 1915.115(a), 1918.66(a)(1), 1926.605(a)
Hearing conservation standard in relation to poultry processing industry. 1910.95(c)
Clarification on window cleaning operations. 1910.28
Applicability of the Coal Tar Pitch Volatiles Standard to dust of coal tar pitch 1910.1002
Use of tube and coupler scaffolds. 1926.451(c)(5)
The use of photochromatic lenses in industry. 1910.133, 1910.133(a)(6)
The correct testing procedure for tree-trimming saddle belts 1910.132
Negative pressure respirators unacceptable for isocyanate paints. 1910.134
Use of roof top rolling outriggers used for swinging scaffolds. 1926.451(a)(2)
Installation of a single stroke mechanism on full revolution mechanical power presses. 1910.217
The employer shall make the appropriate safety footwear available. 1910.266, 1910.132
The safety of divers. 1910.401, 1926.1071
Use of dis-similar metals on tube and couplar scaffolds. 1926.451
Pneumatic tools must be designed and used in accordance with good engineering practices 1926.302
Clarification of the intent of 29 CFR 1926.905(h) and (k). 1926.905
Removing synthetic web slings from service. 1910.184(i)(9), 1910.184(i)(8)
Question of whether the noise standard is adjusted for workshifts greater than 8 hours. 1910.95
Sky Genie Boatswain's Chair System. 1926.451
Public Law 91-596 pertains to workplace safety and health, and requires employers to provide employment free of recognized hazards and to comply with OSHA's regulations. 1910.212