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.

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Date Title Standard Number
Use of flexible cords for connection of appliances; scaffold base plates. 1926.404(a)(2), 1926.404(b)(1)(ii), 1926.405(g), 1926.451(c)(2)
Asbestos tests, evaluations, and sample collections: qualified persons. 1926.1101(k)(5)(ii)(B)
Enforcement Policy Regarding Arborists, SIC 0783 (Ornamental Shrub and Tree Services). 1910.266
Recordability of blood-PCB levels. 1904 - Table of Contents
Training and PPE for employees performing tests on equipment. 1910.333(a)(1), 1910.335(a)(2)(i), 1910.331(a), 1910.334(c)(1)
Use of plastic containers and drums for flammable liquids storage. 1910.106(d)
Stress cone work: worker protection and job briefings 1910.269, 1910.269(c), 1910.269(g), 1910.269(l), 1910.269(l)(2)(i), 1910.269(m), 1910.269(m)(3)(ix), 1910.269(m)(3)(viii), 1910.269(n)
D'AX wheels are to be guarded as cutting saws 1926.300(b)
Load ratings for portable ladders. 1910.25, 1910.26
Demonstrating equivalency for powered platform tie-in guides. 1910.66(e)(2)(i), 1910.66(e)(2)(iii)
Fall protection for exposure to unfilled swimming pools. 1926.501(b)(1), 1926.501(b)(13), 1926.501(b)(15), 1926.502(k)
Moving mobile (Baker) scaffolds; locking casters and wheels. 1926.452(w), 1926.452(w)(2), 1926.452(w)(3), 1926.452(w)(6)(iv)
Fall protection anchorage points: guardrail systems and cranes 1926.502(d)(23), 1926.502(d)(15), 1926.502(a)(2)
Handwashing and toilet facility requirements for agricultural operations. 1928.110(b), 1928.110(c)(2)
Shock absorbing lanyards are not mandatory. 1926.502(d)
Hearing conservation: referrals, financial responsibility, and documentation. 1910.95
Requirements for use of ladder hoisting wheels. 1926 Subpart M, 1926.552, 1926.1053
Using Universal Precautions with Bloodborne Pathogens. 1910.1030(d)(1), 1910.1030(d)(3)
PSM Standard exemption for "normally unoccupied remote facilites" (water treatment plant). 1910.119(a)(2)(iii), 1926.64(a)(2)(iii)
Numerous clarifications regarding underground construction;variances; joint ventures. 1926.800, 1926.1431(k)(11)(i), 1926.16