OSHA Action Levels: Understanding Exposure Limits

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.

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.