Australia's welding fume regulations are tightening dramatically from December 2026 - and businesses are expected to demonstrate the proper application of the hierarchy of control.
- The shift from WES to WEL on 1 December 2026 brings major reductions to allowable exposure levels. The stricter limits mean that many workplaces will need to rethink their entire fume management strategy.
- As of March 2026, Australia and NZ have a new standard (AS/NZS ISO 21904 Series) for welding fume extraction equipment, requiring verified capture efficiency, ≥99% filtration, airflow alarms, and validated hood/torch performance.
AWS are offering a FREE onsite audit to help you get ready!
No cost. No obligation. No sales pressure.
Just practical, expert guidance based on the latest regulatory and standard changes. We’ll assess your current setup, identify any gaps against the new requirements, and give you clear, practical next steps - at no cost!
You’ll walk away from your welding fume product control audit with a clear understanding of:
- What the new limits mean for your workplace
- Whether your current controls are adequate
- What SafeWork will expect during an inspection
- How to reduce exposure to levels that meet the new WELs
- How to protect your team and avoid costly non-compliance.
Register your interest in a free onsite audit here
PLUS: Book your FREE onsite audit and go in the running to WIN!
Every business that books an onsite welding fume product control audit will go in the running to win a Welder’s Professional Kit valued at over $2,800 inc. GST*:
- FREE 3M™ Speedglas™ G5-01 Welding Helmet with Heavy-Duty Adflo™ PAPR
- FREE SPATA Professional Welding Jacket
- FREE Pair of SPATA All-Rounder Welding Gloves
Register your interest in a free onsite audit here
Read our latest industry white paper to learn more
*The total prize pool consists of one (1) prize pack with an approximate retail value of AUD $2,832 (inclusive of Goods and Services Tax (GST)). Only one prize pack is available to be awarded. The winner will be determined in accordance with the promoter’s selection process and announced on 1 December 2026.
