What does the Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) refer to?

The Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) refers specifically to the average airborne concentration of a substance to which workers may be safely exposed over a defined period, usually an eight-hour workday. This limit is established to prevent adverse health effects that may arise from prolonged exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace. PELs are part of regulations set by agencies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to ensure that workers are protected from harmful exposure levels.

This definition distinguishes PEL from other exposure metrics, such as those related to water standards or protective equipment. For instance, it does not pertain to the maximum concentration allowed in water, which involves a different set of regulatory criteria. Additionally, it is not based on levels of exposure that a worker can tolerate without protection or on the handling of minimum quantities, as these concepts relate to different operational safety practices rather than airborne concentrations. Therefore, the focus of the PEL is on maintaining a safe working environment concerning airborne contaminants.