New Workplace Exposure Limits to Apply from 1 December 2026

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This is an abridgement of article posted by SafeWork Australia

This change follows an extensive review of existing exposure standards and is intended to strengthen protections for workers exposed to airborne hazards.

Workplace exposure limits set the maximum airborne concentration of a contaminant that most people can be exposed to without harm to their health. They apply to a wide range of substances that may be present in the workplace, including dusts, gases, fumes, vapours and mists generated during work activities.

What’s Changing

Currently, workplaces must comply with the Workplace Exposure Standards (WES) for airborne contaminants. From 1 December 2026, these standards will be replaced by the Workplace Exposure Limits (WEL) list across Australia. The change in terminology aligns Australia with international practice and reinforces that these limits should not be exceeded.

While many exposure values remain unchanged, the review has resulted in updated limits for some substances, as well as the addition or removal of certain contaminants. In some cases, limits have been lowered to reflect improved health evidence. Substances may also be grouped or categorised differently under the new list.

What This Means For Workplaces

Although the new WELs do not take effect until late 2026, workplaces should use the transition period to prepare. Until 30 November 2026, duty holders must continue to comply with the existing WES values.

Importantly, core WHS duties remain the same. Businesses must continue to identify airborne hazards, assess risks and implement control measures so far as is reasonably practicable. The introduction of WELs reinforces the need to ensure exposure risks are effectively managed and monitored.

Preparing For The Change

Workplaces that use chemicals or generate dusts, fumes or vapours should begin reviewing their current exposure arrangements, including:

• Identifying airborne contaminants present in the workplace and checking whether exposure limits have changed
  

• Reviewing the effectiveness of existing controls such as ventilation, extraction systems, enclosure and work practices
  

• Considering additional air monitoring or health surveillance where required
  

Early preparation will help ensure a smooth transition and ongoing compliance once the new Workplace Exposure Limits come into effect.

Being proactive about managing airborne contaminants is a key step in protecting workers’ health and maintaining strong risk management practices.

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