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
Applicability of 1910.1020 to workers' compensation records. 1910.1020(b)
Interpretation of 1910.309. 1910.309
Requirements for manhole steps. 1910.27
Former employees may have access to exposure and medical records. 1910.1020(e)(2)
Whether an electro-mechanical single stroke device fulfills the requirements for a single stroke mechanism under 1910.217. 1910.217
Definition of the term: "hospitalization" to send to, put in, or admit to a hospital. 1926.52
Unique, Drilling Rig-Doghouses, Oil and Gas Drilling Industries. 1910 - Table of Contents
Valve protection for compressed gas cylinders 1910.252
Employers not requiring employees pouring iron to wear protective clothing may be cited for a serious violation. 1910.132
Use of fork extensions on forklifts. 1910.178(a)(4)
Cut and cover construction. 1926.800
Power press brake used as a mechanical power press (punch press). 1910.212, 1910.217
Scaffolding as it relates to toeboards, guardrails and planking. 1926.451(a)(4), 1926.451(a)(5)
Applicability of 29 CFR 1910.268 to pipeline transmission companies and gas utilities. 1910.268
OSHA's classification of assembled auto air bag inflation modules. 1910.109
Falling object protective structure standards. 1926.604
Cushion part of the body belt. 1926.959(b)(2)(i)
Specific Trenching Requirements. 1926.652
New safety standards for servicing multi-piece rim wheels. 1910.177
Interpretation on conversion of a gasoline powered industrial truck to LP gas. 1910.178(d)