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
The information in Appendices A and B of the Lead Standard must be included in employee training. 1910.1025(l)(1)(iii)
Review of acceptable housekeeping requirements under the lead standard. 1910.1025(h)
Railing required for opensided floor or platform 6 feet or more above the floor or ground level. 1926.500
Construction of electric transmissions and distribution lines and the use of hydraulic tools. 1926.951
Live-line barehand technique used to work high voltage lines. 1926.955(e)
A preheat area in a coke oven battery is considered as a regulated area. 1910.1029
Safeguarding the point of operation on mechnical power presses. 1910.217
The enforcement of 29 CFR 1910.23(a)(9), for floor openings and holes. 1910.23
The reduction of air pressure below 30 psi for cleaning purposes. 1910.242
Installation of electrical equipment. 1910.309
Interpretation on the use of power activated fasteners being driven into ductile cast iron ingot molds. 1926.302(e)(7)
"Audible above" is a signal alarm distinguishable from the surrounding noise level. 1926.601
Use of Steel Band in Guardrails. 1926.500
Clarification of 29 CFR 1926.855(b) and (f) 1926.855(b), 1926.855(f)
Clarification on initial examinations required under the cotton dust standard. 1910.1043(h)(2)
Lifelines must be a minimum of 3/4 inch manila or equivalent, with a minimum breaking strength of 5,400 pounds. 1926.104
1910.123-1910.126, As Applied to Dip Tanks Containing Varnish for Electric Motor Coating. 1910.123, 1910.124, 1910.125, 1910.126
1910.218(e)(1)(i) applies to pneumatic drop hammers used in hot forging operations. 1910.218(e)(1)(i)
Request for temporary variance to housekeeping requirements for vacuuming under the lead standard; Criteria for portable vacuum machines for vacuuming clothing. 1910.1025(h)(2)(ii), 1910.1025(i)(4)(iv)
Trenching requirements as it relates to banks and shoring. 1926.653, 1926.651