Which organization establishes the standards for Permissible Exposure Limits?

The organization that establishes the standards for Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) is OSHA, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. OSHA is responsible for ensuring safe and healthful working conditions by setting and enforcing standards for workplace safety and health.

In particular, PELs refer to the maximum amount or concentration of a substance that a worker can be exposed to under OSHA regulations. These limits are designed to protect workers from health hazards associated with exposure to hazardous materials in the workplace. By establishing these standards, OSHA plays a crucial role in maintaining worker safety and health.

While NIOSH, ACGIH, and EPA also deal with exposure limits and health standards, their roles differ. NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) provides research and recommendations, but it doesn't set enforceable standards like OSHA. ACGIH (American Conference of Governmental and Industrial Hygienists) publishes Threshold Limit Values (TLVs), which are designed for use in occupational settings but are not legal limits. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) regulates environmental standards, focusing on public health and environmental protection rather than specifically on occupational exposure limits.