For the purposes of this section the following definitions apply:

Action level. A concentration of airborne chromium (VI) of 2.5 micrograms per cubic meter of air (2.5 (mu)g/m\3\) calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA).

Chromium (VI) (hexavalent chromium or Cr(VI)). Chromium with a valence of positive six, in any form and in any compound.

Emergency. Any occurrence that results, or is likely to result, in an uncontrolled release of chromium (VI). If an incidental release of chromium (VI) can be controlled at the time of release by employees in the immediate release area, or by maintenance personnel, it is not an emergency.

Employee exposure. The exposure to airborne chromium (VI) that would occur if the employee were not using a respirator.

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. A filter that is at least 99.97 percent efficient in removing mono-dispersed particles of 0.3 micrometers in diameter or larger.

Historical monitoring data. Data from chromium (VI) monitoring conducted prior to July 31, 2006, obtained during work operations conducted under workplace conditions closely resembling the processes, types of material, control methods, work practices, and environmental conditions in the employer's current operations.

Objective data. Information such as air monitoring data from industry-wide surveys or calculations based on the composition or chemical and physical properties of a substance demonstrating the employee exposure to chromium (VI) associated with a particular product or material or a specific process, operation, or activity. The data must reflect workplace conditions closely resembling the processes, types of material, control methods, work practices, and environmental conditions in the employer's current operations.

Physician or other licensed health care professional (PLHCP). An individual whose legally permitted scope of practice (i.e., license, registration, or certification) allows him or her to independently provide or be delegated the responsibility to provide some or all of the particular health care services required by WAC 296-62-08023.

Regulated area. An area, demarcated by the employer, where an employee's exposure to airborne concentrations of chromium (VI) exceeds, or can reasonably be expected to exceed, the PEL.