Working safely around airborne contaminants - Your rights and responsibilities at work: Flyer

Last updated: 22 May 2026

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 serious risk to your health and safety at work.

Your rights as a worker

  • Be safe from exposure to airborne contaminants
  • Be consulted on health and safety matters related to airborne contaminants
  • Access information, training and instruction to do your job safely
  • Refuse unsafe work if there is a serious risk to health and safety from exposure to airborne contaminants.

Your responsibilities as a worker

  • Taking reasonable care of your own health and safety
  • Ensuring your actions do not harm others
  • Following reasonable instruction, policy and procedures
  • Using equipment and any personal protective equipment correctly.