Retention of atmospheric monitoring records for a permit-required confined space

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.

November 3, 2023

Manesh R. Rath
Keller and Heckman LLP
1001 G Street, N.W.
Suite 500 West
Washington, D.C. 20001

Dear Mr. Rath:

Noise exposure measurement records must be retained for 2 years.

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.

August 17, 2000

Don Bentley PE, CIH
Industrial Hygiene Technical Advisor
Bureau of Worker's Compensation
Division of Safety and Hygiene
13430 Yarmouth Dr., NW
P.O. Box 338
Pickerington, OH 43147-0338

Dear Mr. Bentley:

Thank you for your letter of July 6, 2000 to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regarding the required retention times for employee exposure records. We have restated your question and answered it below.

Medical record retention requirements when companies contract outside agencies.

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.

May 12, l981

Mr. L. O. Walker
Corporate Director
Safety and Security
Bell and Howell
7100 McCormick Road
Chicago, Illinois 60645

Dear Mr. Walker:

OSHA's Chicago Regional Office has asked me to respond to your March 6, 1981, inquiry concerning OSHA's Access to Employee Exposure and Medical Records standard (29 CFR 1910.1020). Specifically, your question pertains to retention requirements when companies contract outside physicians, hospitals, and clinics to conduct physicals and treat employees for illnesses and injuries.

Qualifications for interpreting/classifying chest roentenograms and maintenance of interpretation forms.

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.

November 30, 2005

Dr. Jim Rafferty
Arbor Occupational Medicine
2995 Baseline Road, Suite 310
Boulder, CO 80303

Dear Dr. Rafferty:

Thank you for your July 21, 2005, letter to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). You have a few questions regarding OSHA's general industry asbestos standard, 29 CFR 1910.1001, as applied to medical surveillance of asbestos workers and chest roentgenograms. (Roentgenograms are also known as radiographs or x-ray films.)