Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Model Lead Based Paint Risk Assessor Practice Test

What is the permissible exposure limit (PEL) for lead according to OSHA?

1. 50 µg/m3

2. 30 µg/m3

3. 1978

4. 1990

The correct answer is: 50 µg/m3

The permissible exposure limit (PEL) for lead established by OSHA is set at 50 µg/m³, which reflects the maximum airborne concentration of lead that workers can be exposed to during an 8-hour workday, averaging over a 40-hour work week. This limit was established to protect workers from the adverse health effects associated with lead exposure, which can include neurological damage, reproductive issues, and other serious health problems. The significance of this standard is rooted in lead's toxicity and the serious implications it has for human health. Lead can accumulate in the body over time, leading to cumulative and detrimental effects. By setting the PEL at 50 µg/m³, OSHA aims to minimize these harmful exposures, particularly in industries where lead is commonly used, such as in construction, battery manufacturing, and other occupational settings. The other choices listed do not pertain to permissible exposure limits. Options referencing specific years (like 1978 and 1990) relate to regulatory changes or historical contexts but do not specify valid exposure limits. While a different concentration might reflect historical or legislative milestones in lead regulation, they do not represent the current PEL set by OSHA. This focus on the 50 µg/m³ benchmark emphasizes the regulatory framework established by