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.

Filters


Date Title Standard Number
Manufacturer Supplying Halon 1301 Systems for Fire and Explosion Suppression. 1910.162, 1910.272
Wire rope perimeter guarding for open-sided floors. 1926.500(d)(1), 1926.500(f)(1)
Concrete and Masonry Construction standards and masonry walls. 1926.706
Requirements for guarding points of operation and belts on heavy duty sewing machines 1910.212(a)(1), 1910.219
An explanation of the hazard it is designed to control. 1910.107(b)(6)
Protection of flexible cords when hung in tunnel shafts. 1926.405(a)(2)(ii)(I), 1926.800(s)(1)
Enforcement of the Welding Fume PEL. 1910.1000
Protective Clothing for Firefighters 1910.120, 1910.156
Actual live fire not necessary in "hands on" practice training 1910.155(c)(41)
Standard for medical services and first aid 1910.151
Post Emergency Response Training Requirements 1910.120
Pacific strike force 24 hour training requirement 1910.120
Regarding warning labels under OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard. 1910.1200
ILO Questionnaire concerning health and medical services
Regulations requiring bus maintenance facilities to use safety stands when maintenance personnel are working under buses which have been raised by in-ground or portable vehicle hoists. 1910.147
Employee evacuation in the event of imminent Natural Phenomenon. 1910.38, 1910.120, 1910.120(a)(1)(v), 1910.120(q)(1), 1910.120(q)(6)
Cost of training is the employer's responsibility. 1910.120, 1910.120(e)(6)
All mobile housing units without exception, must comply with the general provisions for 1910.142. 1910.142(b)(9)
Safety and health protection for city government. 1975.3
Review Commission Decisions. 1926.500(d)(1)