What do permissible exposure limits (PELs) protect workers from?

Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) are regulatory limits designed to protect workers from the health effects associated with exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace. These limits are established by safety organizations and are intended to minimize the risk of acute and chronic health issues that can arise from inhaling, ingesting, or contacting harmful chemicals or substances. By defining the maximum concentration of a substance that workers can be exposed to over a specific time without experiencing adverse health effects, PELs play a critical role in ensuring workplace safety and safeguarding the health of employees over time.

The other options, while related to workplace safety, fall outside the specific scope of PELs. For instance, chemical burns are more associated with the immediate harmful effects of exposed substances rather than long-term exposure limits, excessive noise pertains to limits on sound exposure, and burnout and stress are more psychological factors rather than directly related to the chemical exposure limits. Thus, the primary objective of PELs remains focused on mitigating health risks from hazardous substances.