Some hazards in the workplace aren’t always visible. Airborne contaminants, including dust, fumes, gases, and vapours in the air can be difficult to see. You might not be able to smell, or taste them, but they can affect your health. Everyday work tasks, such as grinding metal, welding, applying pesticides, mixing chemicals, cutting stone or timber can produce airborne contaminants. Repeat exposure to these airborne contaminants may contribute to serious long-term illness. Understanding and controlling exposure is essential to protecting workers.
What is happening?
From 1 December 2026, workplace exposure standards (WES) will transition to workplace exposure limits (WEL) in Western Australia. The changes include updated exposure limits for a range of hazardous chemicals and airborne contaminants. For some carcinogens where no safe level of exposure can be established, businesses must eliminate or minimise exposure so far as is reasonably practicable.
The updated WEL list aim to reduce these risks and improve long-term health outcomes for workers.
Who is affected?
The updated limits apply to all WA workplaces where workers may be exposed to airborne contaminants, including dust, fumes, gases, and vapours. Industries likely to be most affected include mining, agriculture, construction, manufacturing, cold storage and automotive. However, any workplace where airborne contaminants are present should review its hazards, risks and controls.
The campaign aims to:
- raise awareness of airborne contaminants and the transition from WES to WEL
- ensure duty holders understand their obligations and what actions may be required
- drive compliance activities before 1 December 2026, particularly where exposure limits have changed
- reach hard‑to‑reach audiences with accessible and practical information.
What do workplaces need to do?
With the updated WEL taking effect, workplaces should review potential exposures to hazardous chemicals and other airborne contaminants to ensure risks are effectively managed and controls remain fit for purpose.
- Review your chemical inventory and identify any substances affected by the updated WEL. Safe Work Australia’s Hazardous Chemical Information System (HCIS) can help you find hazard classification information and workplace exposure limits.
- Review and improve control measures, such as substitution, isolation, ventilation, engineering controls and personal protective equipment.
- Conduct air and health monitoring where exposures may occur. Consider engaging an occupational hygienist if specialist advice is needed.
- Update risk assessments, safety data sheets and safe work procedures.
- Consult with workers and ensure they understand any changes affecting their work.
- Access free WorkSafe resources and guidance in multiple languages.
How can you get ready?
We have developed resources for employers, workers, health and safety representatives, work health and safety professionals, and small businesses to support the transition, including:
- sector-specific information sheets and checklists
- multilingual resources
- webinars and short-form videos.
Visit the Airborne Contaminants hub for the full range of resources and to stay up to date.