Australia is transitioning to the Workplace exposure limits for airborne contaminants (WEL list). Until 1 December 2026, you must still comply with the Workplace exposure standards for airborne contaminants (WES list).
Work processes can release fumes, dusts, gases, mists, fibres or vapours into the air. These are known as airborne contaminants, and they may pose a risk to work health and safety (WHS).
Employers have a WHS duty to ensure their workers are not exposed to harmful airborne contaminants.
Many airborne contaminants cannot be seen or smelled, yet they still may be present at harmful levels and cause serious health issues for workers, including occupational lung disease.