What is the Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) for lead?

The Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) for lead, which is regulated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), is set at 50 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m^3) of air, averaged over an 8-hour workday. This limit is established to protect workers from the harmful effects of lead exposure, which can cause serious health issues, including neurological damage, hypertension, and reproductive problems.

The PEL is intentionally set to minimize the risk of lead poisoning in occupational settings where employees may be exposed to lead-containing materials or lead dust. Maintaining exposure at or below this limit is crucial for ensuring safety and health in lead-related work environments. This limit is also part of a broader regulatory framework that includes medical monitoring and necessary protective measures for workers.

Other figures given in the options do not represent the established occupational safety standards for lead exposure, hence emphasizing the importance of knowing the correct PEL is vital for compliance and health safety in lead abatement and related fields.