The obligation
PCBUs must assess and control exposure to welding fumes and gases (including toxic metals, ozone, CO) using elimination, substitution, engineering controls, and PPE, consistent with WES under WHS Regulations.
Welding produces hazardous fumes and gases (metal oxides, fluorides, ozone, carbon monoxide). The Code requires PCBUs to assess exposure against Workplace Exposure Standards (WES), apply the hierarchy of controls — substitution of base materials/consumables, local exhaust ventilation (LEV), general dilution ventilation, respiratory protective equipment (RPE) — and maintain control measures. Specific attention is required for stainless steel (hexavalent chromium) and galvanised/painted metals.
- What
- PCBUs must assess and control exposure to welding fumes and gases (including toxic metals, ozone, CO) using elimination, substitution, engineering controls, and PPE, consistent with WES under WHS Regulations.
- Source
- safeworkaustralia.gov.au
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Labels
fumes
LEV
RPE
WES
hexavalent chromium
Official sources
Frequently asked questions
Which WHS law does this come from?
Control of welding fumes, gases and hazardous substances is a WHS requirement set out in Welding processes (FEDERAL). It is made under Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (FEDERAL). The relevant provision is Welding processes > Fume and gas controls.
What does this WHS obligation require?
Control of welding fumes, gases and hazardous substances is a WHS obligation under Welding processes (FEDERAL). In short, PCBUs must assess and control exposure to welding fumes and gases (including toxic metals, ozone, CO) using elimination, substitution, engineering controls, and PPE, consistent with WES under WHS Regulations.
What changed recently?
Control of welding fumes, gases and hazardous substances was last updated on 26 August 2026.
