purpose: (A) The OTM provides technical information and guidance on occupational safety and health topics. The content is based on currently available research publications, OSHA standards, and consensus standards. The purpose of the manual is to assist OSHA Compliance Safety and Health Officers in hazard recognition and to provide guidance in accident prevention. It also serves as a source of advice for CSHO's on safety and health issues. (B) The manual is not a substitute for OSHA standards and is not used for establishing Agency compliance policies. In the unlikely event of any inconsistencies between material in the manual and the requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Act and the standards and regulations promulgated there under, the latter are controlling. The manual has ten sections and each section is divided into specific chapters. (See reference section below for a complete list of sections, chapters, and updates.) The information herein is valuable in establishing sound safety and health programs. Content of The Manual: The OTM is divided into the following sections and chapters: (1) Sampling and measurement methods: (a) Personal sampling for air contaminants; (b) Sampling for surface contamination; (c) Technical equipment; (d) Sample shipping and handling. (2) Health hazards: (a) Polymer matrix materials; (b) Indoor air quality investigation; (c) Ventilation investigation; (d) Heat stress; (e) Noise measurement; (f) Laser hazards; (g) Legionnaires' disease. (3) Safety hazards: (a) Oil well derrick stability; (b) Petroleum refining processes; (c) Pressure vessel guidelines; (d) Industrial robots. (4) Construction operations: (a) Demolition; (b) Excavations; (c) Controlling lead exposures in the construction industry. (5) Health care facilities: (a) Hospital investigations; (b) Controlling occupational exposure to hazardous drugs. (6) Ergonomics: (a) Back disorders and injuries. (7) Personal protective equipment: (a) Chemical protective clothing; (b) Respiratory protection. (8) Safety and health management and (9) Miscellaneous issues. See more from topic source: https://www.osha.gov/html/a-z-index.html