This discussion document was produced by the HSC's Advisory Committee
on Toxic Substances. It considered ways to improve the contribution occupational
exposure limits (OELs) make to the protection of workers' health. Under
health and safety law, OELs are standards that determine the amount of a
substance allowable in the workplace air. Under the current system in the
UK there are two types of OEL, the Occupational Exposure Standard (OES)
and the Maximum Exposure Limit (MEL). This document explains the difficulties
with the current system, sets out objectives for a revised system and examines
the merits of three options. It sought your views on all these issues.
