If the MUC when using SCBA is calculated, what is the possible value given a PEL of 50 ug/m3?

To determine the Maximum Use Concentration (MUC) when using a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), one must consider the permissible exposure limit (PEL) for the substance in question. In this case, with a PEL of 50 micrograms per cubic meter (ug/m3), the MUC can be calculated by using the formula:

[ \text{MUC} = \text{PEL} \times \text{assigned protection factor (APF)} ]

The APF for SCBA is typically 10,000. When the PEL of 50 ug/m3 is multiplied by the APF, the calculation is as follows:

[ \text{MUC} = 50 , \text{ug/m3} \times 10,000 = 500,000 , \text{ug/m3} ]

This results in a maximum use concentration of 500,000 ug/m3, confirming that the correct option is indeed based on the accepted methodology for determining the MUC relevant to the level of protection afforded by the SCBA.

Understanding this calculation is crucial in ensuring safety and compliance with occupational exposure limits when handling hazardous materials.