By Ed Stuber
Understanding ACGIH Notice of Intended Changes (NICs) for 2024
Every year, the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) releases its updated Threshold Limit Value (TLV) booklet, which outlines Occupational Exposure Limits (OELs) for various chemicals encountered in workplaces. This guide is a crucial resource for health and safety professionals as it reflects the most current scientific understanding of safe exposure levels to chemicals.
In the 2024 edition of the TLV booklet, notable NICs have been highlighted for certain chemicals, indicating potential adjustments to existing exposure limits. While these values are not legally binding in the US, they represent a consensus among professionals regarding safe exposure thresholds.
Key NICs for 2024
- Acrolein
Current STEL Limit: 0.05 PPM
NIC: Proposed increase to 0.1 PPM
- Nitric Acid
Current TWA: 2 PPM
NIC (TWA): Removal of NIC
Current STEL: 4 PPM
NIC (STEL): Proposed decrease to 0.025 PPM (Inhalable fraction and vapor)
Adopted Changes for 2024
- Benzene
Previous TWA: 0.5 PPM
New Adopted TWA: 0.02 PPM
STEL: Removed for 2024
- Epichlorohydrin
Previous TWA: 0.5 PPM
New Adopted TWA: 0.1 PPM
- Formic Acid
Previous TWA: 10 PPM
New Adopted TWA: 5 PPM
Worker Safety Implications
The recent lowering of TLVs for chemicals such as Benzene, Epichlorohydrin, and Formic Acid shows a heightened understanding of their health risks. It emphasizes the need for regular workplace exposure reviews to protect workers. Lower TLVs mean exposure levels once considered safe may now pose risks, highlighting the importance of proactive measures for worker safety.
Stay informed and prioritize safety by incorporating these updated TLVs into your workplace assessments and exposure control strategies. By doing so, we can mitigate risks and promote healthier environments for all workers.
At SGS, we’re committed to helping you meet the new lower exposure limits. Our expertise and resources ensure that your workplace complies with the latest TLVs, safeguarding worker health. We provide complimentary sampling media and pumps for accurate and efficient monitoring of chemical exposures. Additionally, our team will help you develop a robust sampling plan, including choosing the correct analytical methods and determining the appropriate sampling duration to collect the required air volume.
By leveraging our comprehensive services, you can ensure compliance with the new TLVs and maintain a safe working environment. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your industrial hygiene needs.