- Standard Number:
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 14, 1992
The Honorable Slade Gorton
United States Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510
Dear Senator Gorton:
This is in response to your letter of July 20, on the behalf of your constituent Mr. Steve R. Washburn, concerning the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) coverage of construction employees under 29 CFR 1910.1030, "Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens." Thank you for the opportunity to clarify this important issue.
In response to numerous inquiries, we will be changing OSHA Instruction CPL 2-2.44C, "Enforcement Procedures for the Occupational Exposures to Bloodborne Pathogens Standard," to state that the recently promulgated standard on bloodborne pathogens (29 CFR 1910.1030) does not apply to construction work as defined in 29 CFR 1910.12. Please be advised that maintenance operations with actual or potential exposure to blood or other potentially infectious material are general industry activities, not construction work and, consequently, are covered by all the provisions of 29 CFR 1910.1030.
Sincerely,
Patricia K. Clark, Director
Directorate of Compliance Programs