Combined Toxic Effects of Chemicals

Below is a summary of some of the very similar methods and rationale used by agencies to assess the combined toxic effects of chemicals.

ACGIH Source: TLV’s and BEI’s Publication

Recommends an additive (combined) approach for two or more substances that affect the same target organ/system The ratio of the exposure concentrations are summed [...]

Adjusting Occupational Exposure Limits for Extended Work Shifts

OSHA currently has two standards in which the PEL is adjusted based on the length of the work shift, both of which are lead standards:

29 CFR 1910.1025 29 CFR 1926.62

All other PELs are based upon 8-hour time weighted average (TWA), a short term exposure limit (STEL), or a ceiling limit (C).

The [...]

PEL Adjustments for Extended Work Shifts – Noise

The purpose of this memorandum is to resolve issues concerning adjustments of the PEL during extended work shifts. This applies for exposures to the noise levels of Table G-16 of 29 CFR 1910.95 or substances found in Subpart Z. Current OSHA policy requires only the action level to be reduced for exposures to noise [...]