Question #1 “Permissible Exposure Limits (PEL) are set by OSHA to protect workers against the adverse effects of exposure to chemical substances” (Haight, 2012, p. 52). In the world of gas detection, PELs limit the amount or concentration of a substance in the air and generally are based on an 8-hour time-weighted average exposure. “A Threshold Limit Value (TLV), set by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), is the limit of exposure to a chemical substance that a worker can be exposed to, day after day, without adverse health effects” (Haight, 2012, p.52). PELs are legal limits, meaning OSHA can enforce their use and any non-compliance in the United States. In contrast, TLVs are recommendations. Although ACGIH is a well-known and respected scientific organization that contributes to the PELs set by OSHA, its TLVs are not legal limits.
…show more content…
“STEL is the maximum concentration of a chemical to which workers may be exposed continuously for a short period of time without any danger to health, safety or work efficiency” (Haight, 2012, p.52). All three should be used when considering the toxicity of a spilled hazardous material. “Chemical levels are considered immediately dangerous to life or health so response workers should not be allowed to enter the area without proper PPE” (Haight, 2012,
“STEL is the maximum concentration of a chemical to which workers may be exposed continuously for a short period of time without any danger to health, safety or work efficiency” (Haight, 2012, p.52). All three should be used when considering the toxicity of a spilled hazardous material. “Chemical levels are considered immediately dangerous to life or health so response workers should not be allowed to enter the area without proper PPE” (Haight, 2012,