Permissible exposure limits (PELs) are mandated by which organization?

Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) are regulatory limits set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) that dictate the maximum amount of a substance that workers can be exposed to safely over a specific time period, typically during an 8-hour work shift. OSHA establishes these limits to protect workers from the harmful effects of occupational exposure to hazardous substances.

PELs are based on various factors, including scientific data about the health effects of the chemicals in question and practical considerations about their use in workplace environments. OSHA's focus on workplace safety makes it the authoritative body responsible for regulating these limits.

The other organizations mentioned—EPA, NIOSH, and CDC—have important roles in health and safety, but they do not set PELs. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focuses primarily on environmental protection and regulates pollutants that may affect air and water quality, while the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) conducts research and makes recommendations on workplace safety but does not enforce regulations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is focused on public health initiatives and disease prevention rather than occupational safety standards.