In a significant update to workplace safety regulations, Safe Work Australia has announced that Workplace Exposure Standards will be renamed Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs) starting December 1, 2026. Along with the new name, there will be lower exposure limits for 160 airborne contaminants, a move aimed at enhancing worker safety in high-risk environments.
One of the most notable changes is the reduction in the Time Weighted Average (TWA) for Carbon Monoxide (CO)—a common hazard in confined spaces. The exposure limit will be reduced from 30ppm to 20ppm, requiring workplaces to take action to ensure compliance.
What Do These Exposure Limit Changes Mean for Your Workplace?
These revised exposure limits will necessitate a thorough review of workplace safety procedures and permit systems. Key adjustments include:
Updating Gas Monitor Alarm Values:Â Portable gas monitors used for confined space entry must be reprogrammed to reflect the new Carbon Monoxide limits.
Revisiting Risk Assessments:Â Workplaces must review their processes to ensure all airborne contaminants are managed in line with the updated limits.
Improving Worker Training:Â Employees should be educated on the dangers of Carbon Monoxide and trained to recognize and respond to potential hazards.
Reducing Exposure Limits: A Hierarchy of Controls
To mitigate risks associated with Carbon Monoxide and comply with the new Workplace Exposure Limits, workplaces should apply the hierarchy of controls:
1. Elimination
Where feasible, eliminate the use of equipment or processes that produce Carbon Monoxide. For instance, consider switching to electric or battery-powered tools instead of fuel-powered alternatives.
2. Substitution
Replace high-emission equipment with low-emission or zero-emission alternatives. For example, substitute gas-powered machinery with cleaner technologies.
3. Isolation
Install barriers or enclosures to separate workers from areas where Carbon Monoxide is generated. This reduces the likelihood of exposure.
4. Engineering Controls
Enhance ventilation systems to improve airflow, dilute Carbon Monoxide levels, and remove contaminants from the work environment.
5. Administrative Controls
Implement policies to limit workers’ exposure time in high-risk environments. This could include job rotation, scheduling adjustments, and training on safe practices.
6. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Provide workers with appropriate respiratory protective equipment where other control measures cannot adequately mitigate exposure risks.
Why Compliance is Critical
These changes underscore the importance of proactive safety management. Businesses that fail to comply with the updated Workplace Exposure Limits may face penalties, operational delays, and increased risk of harm to workers. By acting now, workplaces can ensure a smooth transition to the new standards while safeguarding employee health and well-being.
Stay Ahead of the Changes
Don’t wait until 2026 to address these updates. By taking action now, your business can ensure compliance with the revised Workplace Exposure Limits while fostering a safer work environment for your team.
For more information on the new limits and how they apply to your industry, visit Safe Work Australia – Workplace Exposure Limits.
To learn how Standby Safety can support your compliance journey, contact us today or explore our services at www.standbysafety.com.au.
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