OSHA #511 Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry course

Which term refers to the highest concentration of a substance to which workers may be exposed?

1. Lower Exposure Limit

2. Upper Exposure Limit

3. Permissible Exposure Limit

4. Immediate Danger Limit

The correct answer is: Upper Exposure Limit

The term that refers to the highest concentration of a substance to which workers may be exposed is known as the Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL). PELs are established by OSHA to protect workers from the harmful effects of various hazardous substances in the workplace. They define the maximum allowable concentration of a toxic substance that a worker can be safely exposed to during a standard work shift. Understanding PELs is crucial for ensuring a safe working environment. They are typically derived from scientific research and are intended to safeguard worker health by limiting exposure to harmful chemicals or physical agents. The guidelines take into consideration both the chronic and acute effects of substances, aiming to reduce the risk of health-related issues over time. While terms like Upper Exposure Limit and Immediate Danger Limit may refer to exposure thresholds, they do not specifically denote the legally enforceable limit set by OSHA for general industry. The Upper Exposure Limit could refer to a non-specific upper threshold in certain contexts but is not a standard term used in OSHA regulations. The Immediate Danger Limit pertains to situations posing an immediate threat to life or health, which is a more urgent scenario than the standard exposure limits established to maintain worker safety in a general context.