26 Aug 2026
From 1 December 2026, workplace exposure standards will be replaced with Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs). The changes are designed to strengthen protections for workers by helping businesses better manage exposure to airborne contaminants in the workplace.
From 1 December 2026, workplace exposure standards will be replaced with Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs). The changes are designed to strengthen protections for workers by helping businesses better manage exposure to airborne contaminants in the workplace.Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs) should start preparing now by
checking for current information on the SafeWork NSW website:
review your safety data sheets
talk to workers
undertake a risk assessment.
seeking additional information from the Safe Work Australia website including:
plain language and translated animations
a comparative table between workplace exposure standards and WELs
a stakeholder pack to help you share important information.
Preparing early can help ensure your workplace is ready for the new requirements and continue to protect workers from harmful airborne contaminants.
Understanding the new WHS duty to comply with Codes of practice |
SafeWork NSW has released a video explaining the new duty for PCBUs to comply with Codes of practice or implement an alternative approach that achieves an equivalent or higher standard of health and safety. Codes of practice are available on the website.
Amended Prosecution Guidelines published |
SafeWork NSW has updated its Prosecution Guidelines following changes to the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (the Act) that took effect on 13 October 2025.