1926.1427(h): Language and literacy requirements
Key takeaways
- 1926.1427(h) is part of OSHA's construction standards (29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart CC).
- Related part: 1926.1427(h)(2).
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What this rule covers
29 CFR 1926.1427(h) ("Language and literacy requirements") is one requirement inside 1926.1427 Operator training, certification, and evaluation, an OSHA construction standard (Part 1926, Subpart CC). It includes 4 sub-paragraphs. The official text below is copied word for word from the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR). The numbers, injury cases and training on this page show how OSHA enforces it on real job sites.
Official text
(h) Language and literacy requirements.
(1) Tests under this section may be administered verbally, with answers given verbally, where the operator candidate:
(i) Passes a written demonstration of literacy relevant to the work.
(ii) Demonstrates the ability to use the type of written manufacturer procedures applicable to the class/type of equipment for which the candidate is seeking certification.
(2) Tests under this section may be administered in any language the operator candidate understands, and the operator's certification documentation must note the language in which the test was given. The operator is only permitted to operate equipment that is furnished with materials required by this subpart, such as operations manuals and load charts, that are written in the language of the certification. Open (h)(2)
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15. Read all of 1926.1427.
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OSHA interpretation letters
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About this page
Sources
- 29 CFR 1926.1427 (eCFR), text current as of 2026-10-15
- U.S. Department of Labor enforcement data: OSHA inspections, citations and accident records, copied nightly
3-year window. Federal OSHA only; state-plan rules are not counted. Plain-language text is a summary, not legal advice; the official text controls. Black Belt Safety is not part of OSHA or the Department of Labor.