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What Is the Action Level According to OSHA?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) defines an action level as exposure to a dangerous situation, such as excessive noise, lead or hazardous materials. The action level is calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average. Each type of hazardous material's action level is calculated according to different measurements.

  1. Lead

    • According to OSHA, when an employee is exposed to lead over an 8-hour period, then the allowable exposure will be reduced according to a time-weighted formula for that day.

    Noise

    • OSHA considers noise levels at or above 85 decibels over an 8-hour time-weighted average. When information indicates that employees exposure exceeds this requirement, the employer must utilize a monitoring program.

    Hazardous Materials

    • Per OSHA guidelines, action levels for hazardous materials depend on the specific material involved. Once the level is reached over a time-weighted 8-hour period, exposure monitoring and medical evaluation may be required.

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