Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

What is indicated by TLV-STEL in regard to chemical exposure limits?

1. The maximum concentration allowed continuously

2. The maximum allowable concentration for short-term exposures not exceeding 15 minutes

3. The concentration that must not be exceeded for any exposure duration

4. The safe level for weekly exposure

The correct answer is: The maximum allowable concentration for short-term exposures not exceeding 15 minutes

The term TLV-STEL stands for "Threshold Limit Value - Short-Term Exposure Limit." It is a guideline set by the American Conference of Governmental and Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) to indicate the maximum concentration of a hazardous substance to which workers can be exposed in a short duration, specifically for periods up to 15 minutes. These short-term exposure limits acknowledge the need for relaxation of the continuous exposure limits (like TLV-TWA, which refers to Time-Weighted Average) due to the nature of some work processes or activities where higher concentrations may be tolerable temporarily but not for prolonged periods. In this case, TLV-STEL allows for increased exposure for short durations while still emphasizing the importance of protecting workers from potential acute effects associated with chemical exposures. Understanding these limits is crucial for ensuring safe workplace practices and minimizing health risks associated with chemical hazards.