What does the "P" stand for in the acronym PEL?

The "P" in the acronym PEL stands for "Permissible." PEL refers to the Permissible Exposure Limit, which is a regulatory limit on the amount or concentration of a substance in the air that a worker can be exposed to over a specific time period, typically an eight-hour day. These limits are established to ensure that occupational exposure to harmful substances is managed effectively to protect workers' health and safety.

Understanding the concept of PEL is crucial in hazardous materials management, particularly in workplace settings where exposure to chemicals or other hazardous substances occurs. It serves as a guideline to minimize health risks associated with inhalation of toxic materials, ensuring that the levels remain within safe thresholds to prevent adverse health effects.