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
OSHA will not currently pursue a national MSDS repository. 1910.1200(g)
Application of hatch covers to the Bilco Type "S" Roof Scuttle. 1910.27(c)(7)
Clarification of OSHA's CPL 2-1.30 regarding tractor trailer chocking. 1910.178(k)(1), 1910.178(m)(7)
Training for travel lift (mobile gantry crane) operators. 1910.178(l), 1910.179(a)(35), 1910.179(b)(8)
Clarification of HIV and HBV research and clinical laboratories. 1910.1030(b), 1910.1030(e)
Questions regarding the cleaning of asbestos-containing floor tile. 1910.1001(k)(7), 1926.1101(l)(3)
PSM coverage of oil and gas production and separation facilities. 1910.119(a), 1926.64(a)
Use of "generic" LOTO procedures in conjunction with "work authorization permits". 1910.147(c)(1), 1910.147(d)(3), 1903.14(f)
Powered industrial truck requirements regarding "split-forking" and "bulldozing." 1910.178(o)(1), 1910.178(l)(3)(i)(M)
Location of employee's records who are not associated with fixed establishments. 1904.14
HAZCOM: Clarification of "article" and "hazardous substance". 1910.1200(c), 1910.1200(d)(4)
Recordability of injury/illness resulting solely from a physical defect. 1904.2
Bloodborne Pathogens: Handwashing facilities must be readily accessible. 1910.1030(d)(2)(iii), 1910.1030(d)(2)(v), 1910.1030(d)(2)(vi)
Clarification of when injuries and illnesses are work-related and recordable. 1904.2
Employers must ensure that post-exposure follow-up procedures are provided. 1910.1030(f)(3), 1910.1030(f)(5)
Host employers may require site-specific forklift training of visiting workers 1910.178(l)
Minimum approach distances when using insulating gloves and sleeves. 1910.269(l)(2)
Fork inspection requirements for powered industrial trucks. 1910.178(a)(2), 1910.178(l), 1910.178(q)(7)
Forklifts: free rigging requires manufacturer approval. 1910.178(a)(4)
Earthmoving equipment is not covered by 1910.178; skid- steer equipment may be covered. 1910.178(a), 1910.178(l), 1926.602(d)