The permissible exposure limit (PEL) for noise in an occupational setting under India's Factories Act is:

• A 85 dB(A) for 8 hours/day
• B 90 dB(A) for 8 hours/day ✓
• C 70 dB(A) for 8 hours/day
• D 100 dB(A) for 8 hours/day

Explanation

Under Schedule II of the Factories Act (as amended), the permissible exposure limit for continuous noise is 90 dB(A) for an 8-hour working day, with a 5 dB exchange rate (for every 5 dB increase, allowable exposure time halves). The WHO recommends 85 dB(A) as the occupational exposure limit, and many countries including India have begun aligning with 85 dB(A) in newer guidelines.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

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