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.

NOTICE:

How to Request a Letter of Interpretation

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Date Title Standard Number
The proper recording of several cases. 1904 - Table of Contents
An interpretation concerning OSHA recordkeeping requirements as applied to sheltered workshops. 1904 - Table of Contents
The coverage of the OSHA injury and illness recordkeeping requirements. 1904 - Table of Contents
The recordability of a particular illness case on the OSHA No.200. 1904 - Table of Contents
Requesting a clarification of 29 CFR 1910.178 (k)(1). 1910.178
Guidance in determining whether certain spaces would be considered confined spaces. 1910.146
Safety electrical work practices; motor disconnects;work clearances. 1905 - Table of Contents, 1910.11, 1910.303(g)(1), 1910.305(j)(4), 1910.333(a)(1)
Clarification of the Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals Standard. 1910.106, 1910.119
Applicable regulations and design calculation factors which can be used for tanks and vessels. 1910.106
The OSHA interpretation of respiratory protection requirements with regards to tuberculosis (TB) exposure. 1910.134, 1910.134(d), 1910.134(f)
Spacing of connections between safety net panels. 1926.502
Clarification of house foundation/basement excavation;Fall protection requirements. 1926.652, 1926 Subpart M
Contractors and the criteria for applying the Construction Work Standard. 1910 - Table of Contents, 1910.12, 1926 - Table of Contents
Installation of fall protection equipment criteria in 1926.502. 1926.502
A definition of the word 'ingot' as it applies to 1910.1025. 1910.1025
Process Safety Management regulations and directives. 1910.119
Request for Compliance Assistance Regarding the Enforcement of 29 CFR 1910.266 1910.266
Manucroche Quick Connector for fall arrest systems. 1926.502
Core Elements for Maine 200-type Programs.
OSHA Asbestos Standard. 1910.1001, 1926.1101