What is the primary purpose of Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs)?

The primary purpose of Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) is to protect worker health and safety. PELs are regulatory limits on the amount or concentration of a substance in the air, designed to minimize the risk of adverse health effects resulting from exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace. They are established by organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and serve as part of broader regulations to ensure that employees working in various industries are safeguarded against the harmful effects of chemical exposures.

By setting these limits, PELs help to create a safer working environment, which is crucial for the overall well-being of employees. They are based on scientific research and health data, aimed at preventing conditions such as respiratory problems, skin exposures, and other health hazards associated with chemical substances.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary function of PELs. For instance, while increasing product sales, limiting chemical production, or enhancing product effectiveness are important business and environmental considerations, they do not relate directly to the core objective of PELs, which is focused strictly on ensuring worker safety and health in occupational settings.