1 December is approaching: your workplace exposure checklist

Workplace Exposure Limits take effect on 1 December 2026. Before the change, check that your business has addressed the contaminants relevant to its work.

Your final readiness check:

• Know the sources: identify airborne contaminants from products and work processes.
• Check the limits: use the current official information rather than relying solely on an older safety data sheet or test report.
• Check the controls: confirm that extraction, ventilation and other equipment are suitable, maintained and used.
• Resolve uncertainty: obtain competent advice and arrange air monitoring where required.
• Check health monitoring: determine whether particular workers meet the requirements.
• Talk with workers: explain the controls and any changes to work practices.
• Keep the records: retain relevant assessments, monitoring reports, maintenance records and training information.

If a gap remains, assign responsibility and act promptly. A planned improvement does not justify continuing unsafe exposure.

Exposure limits must not be exceeded. Businesses must also eliminate or minimise exposure risks so far as reasonably practicable, including where exposure is below a limit.

For assistance with your workplace obligations, contact the MTA NSW Employment Relations Team.