1926.16(a): OSHA rule
Key takeaways
- 1926.16(a) is part of OSHA's construction standards (29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart B).
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1926.16(a) is one requirement inside 1926.16 Rules of construction, an OSHA construction standard (Part 1926, Subpart B). 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
(a) The prime contractor and any subcontractors may make their own arrangements with respect to obligations which might be more appropriately treated on a jobsite basis rather than individually. Thus, for example, the prime contractor and his subcontractors may wish to make an express agreement that the prime contractor or one of the subcontractors will provide all required first-aid or toilet facilities, thus relieving the subcontractors from the actual, but not any legal, responsibility (or, as the case may be, relieving the other subcontractors from this responsibility). In no case shall the prime contractor be relieved of overall responsibility for compliance with the requirements of this part for all work to be performed under the contract.
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15. Read all of 1926.16.
Free toolbox talk
A 5-minute crew talk on 1926.16(a), plus alerts when this rule changes. Free.
OSHA interpretation letters
- Application of OSH Act and Multi-employer Citation Policy rather than CWHSSA to ensure subcontractors meet construction occupational safety and health responsibilities. (2005-03-15)
- "Construction work" means work for construction, alteration, and/or repair, including painting and decorating. (1978-06-06)
Get your crew competent
Trainers on Black Belt Safety: Marc Harvey, Dana Reyes
Trainers and suppliers: feature your business on this rule for $25/month.
About this page
Sources
- 29 CFR 1926.16 (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.