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2026 Welding Fume Regulation Changes
2026 Welding Fume Regulation Changes
Australia is strengthening regulations around welding fume exposure, with major implications for workplace compliance. In January 2024, the Workplace Exposure Standard (WES) for welding fumes was reduced by 80% and made legally enforceable, placing greater responsibility on employers. Further changes are coming in December 2026, when WES will be replaced by Workplace Exposure Limits (WEL), aligning Australia with global standards and significantly lowering allowable exposure levels for many hazardous components. Alongside this, the adoption of AS/NZS ISO 21904 in March 2026 introduces new requirements for welding fume extraction equipment. This document summarises the regulatory changes and explores the practical steps required to comply with the new limits and fume extraction standards.
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