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
Guarding of cotton ginning equipment standards. 1928.57
Wire rope were used as a bull wire 1926.251
Exits for Unattended Buildings.
Quick drenching or flushing facilities in battery charging areas. 1910.151
Use of audible alarms in lieu of physical barriers. 1926.550(a)(9)
The OSH Act of 1970 assigns the responsibility for compliance with safety and health standards to the employer. 1910.132, 1910.135
Clarification of what constitutes lashing or stability for portable scaffolds. 1910.28, 1910.66
1910.36(b)(8) does not automatically require at least two means of egress. 1910.36(b)(8)
Clarification of OSHA standards for toilet facilities. 1910.141
Guarding of machinery used in the processing of seed corn. 1928.57, 1910 - Table of Contents
Certain provisions of 1910.184, Slings. 1910.184
Cut-and-cover operation regulations of Excavation, Trenching, and Shoring. 1926.800
OSHA is neither geared nor authorized to evaluate or approve designs and specifications or equipment. 1928 - Table of Contents
Clarification of 1910.184. 1910.184
Agricultural farm equipment standards. 1928.57
Trenching Requirements related to banks. 1926.652(a)
OSHA may not approve, endorse, or recommend any product or process. 1910.107
Interpretation of riding the load or hook. 1926.550
Exit signs in occupied workplaces be illuminated from a reliable external light source which provides a minimum of 5-foot candles on the sign surface. 1910.37
Guarding of Farm Field Equipment, Farmstead Equipment, and Cotton Gins. 1928.57