American Chemical Society (ACS) Laboratory Safety Practice Test 2025 – All-in-One Guide to Mastering Lab Safety Procedures!

The term PEL stands for "Permissible Exposure Limit." This designation refers to the maximum amount or concentration of a substance in the workplace air that workers can be exposed to over a specific period, typically an 8-hour workday. PELs are established by regulatory agencies, such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States, to protect workers from the adverse effects of exposure to hazardous substances, including chemicals, dust, and fumes. It is essential for laboratory and industrial environments to adhere to these limits to ensure the health and safety of all employees.

Understanding PELs is critical for implementing proper safety protocols, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with occupational health standards. This concept underscores the importance of monitoring exposure levels and using personal protective equipment or engineering controls to mitigate risks in the laboratory setting.