What does the maximum permissible exposure limit (PEL) represent in occupational health?

The maximum permissible exposure limit (PEL) represents the legal limit for exposure to a hazardous substance in the workplace. PELs are established by regulatory agencies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to protect workers from the adverse health effects of exposure to various chemicals and physical agents. These limits are important because they provide a framework for maintaining safe working conditions, ensuring that exposure levels do not exceed thresholds that could lead to illness or injury.

Establishing and following PELs contributes significantly to occupational health by putting in place measurable standards. This allows employers to assess their work environments and implement necessary safety measures and controls to reduce exposure, thereby safeguarding the health of employees.