Use of air on the pushover ram to clean standpipes is an acceptable practice; Filtered air is required for operating cabs; Request for variance on requirements for filtered air for standby wharf pulpi

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.

March 27, 1979

Mr. M. Chain Robbins
Director of Corporate
Safety and Health
Republic Steel Corporation
General Offices,
Republic Building
Personnel Department
P.O. Box 6778
Cleveland, Ohio 44101

Dear Mr. Robbins:

This is in follow-up to my letter of February 2, 1979, concerning your July 28, 1978 request for a permanent variance from the following sections of the Coke Oven Emissions Standard for your Massillon Steelmaking Facility:

Use of air on the pushover ram to clean standpipes is an acceptable practice; Standpipes should be cleaned if 20% of the cross sectional area is clocked.

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.

March 6, 1979

Mr. F. G. Harvey
Bethlehem Steel Corporation
Bethlehem Plant
Bethlehem, PA 18016

Dear Mr. Harvey:

This is in further response to your letter of January 11, 1979, requesting a permanent variance and interim order from Sections 1910.1029(f)(2)(i)(g) and (f)(3)(i)(a)(2) concerning Coke Oven Emissions - Mechanized Standpipe Cleaners, of the Occupational Safety and Health Standards.