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. This 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. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

July 23, 1981

MEMORANDUM FOR:   GILBERT J. SAULTER
                 Regional Administrator

ATTN:             HERBERT K. KURTZ

THRU:             JOHN B. MILES
                 Field Coordinator

FROM:             BRUCE HILLENBRAND
                 Deputy Director
                 Federal Compliance and State Programs

SUBJECT:          Request for Clarification of the Applicability of
                 29 CFR 1910.142

RE:               Your memorandum dated July 6, 1981

OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.142 applies to job related housing that is provided by the employer on a temporary basis for workers not at a permanent location. This kind of housing is most commonly used in agriculture where migrant laborers from other geographical areas move temporarily into employer provided housing at crop harvesting time. However, there is no language in 1910.142 to restrict the application of this standard to migrant housing. Similar housing for the use of other kinds of workers would be subject to the same standard and should meet the same specifications. For example, housing supplied for workers in remote or unsettled areas where labor is needed on a temporary basis, as in oil drilling, would also be subject to 1910.142.