Zhonghua Lao Dong Wei Sheng Zhi Ye Bing Za Zhi. 2026 Apr 20;44(4):304-308. doi: 10.3760/cma.j.cn121094-20250828-00342.
ABSTRACT
Objective: To compare and analyze the occupational exposure limits (OELs) specified in China’s “Occupational Exposure Limits for Hazardous Agents in the Workplace-Part 1: Chemical Hazardous Agents” (GBZ 2.1-2019) with the recommended exposure limits (RELs) issued by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) in the United States, aiming to identify chemical hazardous factors requiring optimization of OELs. Methods: In March 2025, using the Chemical Abstracts Service registration number (CAS RN) as the core matching identifier, OELs from GBZ 2.1-2019 and NIOSH RELs in the United States were entered into Excel 2019 to construct a database. The OELs were matched one-to-one according to their classification types. Descriptive statistical methods were employed to analyze the ratio of exposure limits, and content comparisons were conducted to evaluate differences in classification types, legal status, and labeling applications. Results: The types and connotations of limits in China and the United States were basically the same. Among the 272 shared limits, 38.2% (104 items) were consistent, 23.9% (65 items) were basically consistent, and 37.9% (103 items) showed significant differences. There were 51 China standards that were significantly stricter than NIOSH standards in the United States, and 17 China standards that were significantly more lenient than NIOSH standards in the United States. Differences existed between China and the United States limits in terms of legal status and the application of certain labels. Conclusion: Domestic interim standards should be formulated as needed for internationally recognized but unestablished OELs, and OELs that are excessively strict, overly broad or inconsistent with type values should be adjusted. It is recommended to shorten or establish a dynamic OELs update mechanism.
PMID:42092253 | DOI:10.3760/cma.j.cn121094-20250828-00342
