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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How to Request a Letter of Interpretation

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Date Title Standard Number
Clarification of Power Platforms for Exterior Building Maintenance. 1910.66, 1910.28
Letter concerning the minimum width of access to equipment. 1910.73
Fasteners used in tools shall be only those specifically manufactured for use in such tools. 1926.302
The "Power Shift" Model Caterpillar Track Tractors Operating on Inclines in Excess of 30 Degrees Above the Horizontal Plane may Become Hazardous. 1910.267
Request for Interpretation on Applicability of Standards to Water Well Drilling 1910 - Table of Contents
Use of skin diving hood under respirator for bearded employee unacceptable. 1910.134(e)(5)(i)
An interpretation of OSHA Instruction CPL 2-1.4, Information on Grain Elevator Inspections.
Rung spacing for fixed ladders. 1910.27(b)(1)(ii)
Showering requirements of the acrylonitrile standard 1910.1045(m)(2)
Inside storage requirements for consumer commodities less than 50% alcohol. 1910.106(d)(2)
Construction electrical safety. 1926.400
The use of a safety chain in lieu of a gate. 1910.23
Use of non-flowable material for counter weights in rigging outrigger beams. 1926.451
Tip-up rigid guardrail system. 1910.23
Interpretation on construction standard for lasers. 1926.54
Case Davis-Maxi Sneaker. 1926.602
Meat grinder standards. 1910.212
Provisions to assure that workers are adequately protected from noise exposure. 1910.95(c)
Variable day to day exposures cannot be averaged for compliance with action level 1910.95(c)
Evaluation of Winchester Industries portable lights for use in ship repair work. 1915.12(f), 1915.24(b)(7)