Who establishes the Recommended Exposure Limit (REL)?

The Recommended Exposure Limit (REL) is established by NIOSH, which stands for the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. NIOSH is a federal agency that provides guidance on occupational health and safety, including the establishment of RELs for hazardous substances. These limits are designed to protect workers from the potential health effects associated with exposure to various chemicals and materials in the workplace.

NIOSH conducts research and analyzes data to determine safe levels of exposure for different substances, balancing the need for worker productivity and safety. RELs are crucial for employers and safety professionals when developing exposure control strategies and ensuring a safe working environment. They are not regulatory limits but serve as a guideline for worker safety, complementing the standards set by agencies like OSHA.

Other agencies mentioned in the options, such as OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), focus on regulatory standards rather than setting RELs, while the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) primarily deals with environmental exposures, and the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) focuses on public health rather than occupational safety guidelines.