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
A shirt would be considered personal protective equipment in the same manner as goggles, hard hats, or respirators. 1926.28(a)
Portable extinguisher requirements and standpipe requirements in construction. 1926.150(c)
Clarification of protection of wall openings and holes. 1910.23(b), 1910.21(a)(11)
When magazine-fed tools are inspected, the tool is not considered loaded until the magazine feeds the tool. 1926.302(e)(5), 1926.302(e)(6)
Storage of flammable and combustible liquids. 1910.106(d)(5)(vi)(e)
Interpretation on interlocking device for laundry washer tumbler or shaker in the textile standard. 1910.262(cc)(1)
Clarification on using an overhead crane beyond its rated load. 1910.179(b)(2)
Inspections required for powered platforms for exterior building maintenance. 1910.66(e)(3)
Crane operator's responsibility during hand banding operations. 1910.179(n)(3)(x)
Interpretation for exit routes that are not level. 1910.37, 1910.37(a)(3)
Chain saw blade guard not required if it inhibits work or is a hazard. 1910.212(a)(3)(vi)(f)
Clarification of "simple test" for mechanical power press control system failure. 1910.217(b)(13)
Request for interpretation for riding blocks on oilfield drill rigs.;Request for interpretation for riding blocks on oilfield drill rigs. 1910.180(h)(3)(v), 1926.550(b)(2)
Wire mesh gloves are not warranted in some poultry processing operations. 1910.132, 1910.138
Flooring requirements for steel erection changed from 25 to 30 feet on June 30, 1974. 1926.105
Punch presses and the revised standard for mechanical power presses. 1910.217
De minimis notices for ladders with rung lengths that do not comply with the Fixed Ladders standard. 1910.27(b)(1)(iii)
Fire protection requirements for tank saddles. 1910.106(b)(5)(ii)
Standards for liquids with a greater than 200 degree flashpoint. 1910.106(a)(18)(ii)(a), 1910.106(a)(18)(ii)(b)
Training and competency of aerial lift operators. 1910.67