Many Australian Industry Group members have workers who undertake or are involved in tasks that can release dusts, fibres, gases, fumes, vapours or mists into the air. These airborne contaminants are not always visible, but they can pose significant health risks if not effectively managed.
This Australian Industry Group WHS Connect Webinar provided practical insights into the legal obligations related to airborne contaminants and explains the changes coming due to the transition from Workplace Exposure Standards (WES) to Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs), which will take effect on 1 December 2026.
The webinar examined WHS requirements relating to airborne contaminants, including the obligation to eliminate or minimise risks so far as is reasonably practicable, apply the hierarchy of controls, ensure exposures do not exceed applicable exposure limits and undertake air monitoring and health monitoring where required.
With regulators increasingly focused on the management of airborne contaminants, businesses should be reviewing their exposure controls and compliance arrangements now. Many of the new WELs will be lower than existing WES values, meaning additional controls may be required to achieve compliance.
Presenters:
Dr Leigh Thredgold, Principal Adviser, National WHS Policy, Australian Industry Group
John Tiong, Principal Adviser, Work Health Safety Consulting Services, Australian Industry Group
Host:
Trinette Jaeschke, National Manager - WHS Consulting Services, Australian Industry Group
WHS Connect is a national and localised network coordinated by Australian Industry Group, for our members’ staff with work health and safety responsibilities.
Members share ideas and strategies; hear from industry stakeholders; access best practice models in WHS compliance and regulatory information; and enable proactive planning in WHS matters. This network can also offer exclusive opportunities for senior WHS personnel to participate in WHS Policy Development.
WHS Connect is focused on practical solutions to WHS issues, connection and meaningful dialogue with regulators when required.
For further details about WHS Connect, contact Leigh Thredgold, Principal Advisor – National WHS Policy.
Australian Industry Group members enjoy access to the highest quality workplace relations, health & safety, and business advice, resources and support. They are represented by a powerful voice that influences the policy changes needed for Australian industry to thrive.
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