Water and Wastewater Terms Beginning P

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y Z

permissible exposure limit (PEL)

The legal limit in the United States for exposure of a worker to a hazardous substance (such as chemicals, dusts, fumes, mists, gases, or vapors) or agents (such as occupational noise). OSHA sets enforceable permissible exposure limits (PELs) to protect workers against the health effects of excessive exposure. OSHA PELs are based on an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) exposure. Permissible exposure limits are listed in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 29 Part 1910, Subparts G and Z. Also see time-weighted average.