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

Filters


Date Title Standard Number
Observation of monitoring requirement at 1910.95(f) in the occupational noise exposure standard 1910.95(f)
Dole v. Steelworkers, Supreme Court decision 1910.1200
The listing requirements in the U.S. for Industrial Packaging equipment. 1910.302, 1910.303(b)(2), 1910.308, 1910.399
Background and experience to be qualified to conduct annual inspections of the bakery ovens required under OSHA standards. 1910.263(l)(9)(ii)
Training requirements under 1910.120 for General firefighters and police officers 1910.120(a)(3), 1910.120(q)(6)
Dealing with ergonomic hazards in the workplace.
State Plan monitoring and evaluation procedures and interim guidelines for monitoring function subject to GAO and OIG recommendations.
Application of the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) to Independent beauty salon Contractors 1975.3, 1910.1200(b)
Correspondence Sent to the National Office
OSHA Long-Term Training Program - FY 1990-91
The transmittal of material safety data sheets (MSDS). 1910.1200
Jurisdiction over Tank Car Drivers and Helpers. 1975.1
29 CFR 1910.1020 Application to Workplace Drug Testing Results 1910.1020, 1910.1020(c)
Interpretation defining post-emergency response operations under 1910.120(q)(11)(ii) and training requirements for responders. 1910.120(q)(11)(ii)
Clarification of whether employee emergency action or fire prevention plans need to be in written form 1910.38, 1910.39, 1910.38(b), 1910.39(b)
FOM & Standards available to states thru OCIS
Handling of Large-Penalty Cases
OSHA requirements for cleaning chemicals. 1910.1200
The hazard communication standard requirements for food or food additives. 1910.1200(b)(5)(ii), 1910.1200(b)(6)(v)
The issuance of citations by OSHA to A. Gustaf Bryngelson of Rupert, Idaho. 1928.110, 1928.110(c)(4), 1928.110(c)(4)(i), 1928.110(c)(4)(ii), 1928.110(c)(4)(iii), 1928.110(c)(4)(iv), 1928.110(c)(4)(v)