Identifying airborne contaminants in construction workplaces

PCBUs must protect workers from breathing in harmful airborne contaminants. Construction work can create dusts, gases, fumes, mists and vapours - and many of them can’t be seen or smelled.

Common airborne contaminants

  • Concrete and tile dust from cutting, crushing and grinding
  • Asbestos dust
  • Crystalline silica dust from stone benchtops
  • Paint, glue and varnish fumes
  • Exhaust emissions from petrol‑powered tools and plant
  • Welding fumes

Breathing in these contaminants can cause serious illnesses, including asthma, lung cancer, asbestosis, mesothelioma and COPD.

What you can do

Plan the work

Before starting a job:

  • Review the scope of work and how the tasks will be done.
  • Check the Asbestos Register.
  • Complete a WHS risk assessment to identify any airborne contaminants.

Look around your workplace

Watch how work is being done and check the site conditions. Think about:

  • Machinery and equipment being used
  • Hazardous chemicals on site
  • Housekeeping, maintenance and ventilation

Signs of airborne hazards include:

  • Dust or residue on surfaces
  • Workers using - or not using - control measures
  • Equipment warning lights showing filter or system problems

Some contaminants have a smell or are visible, but many do not.

Talk to your workers

Workers and HSRs can tell you which tasks create dust or fumes and where improvements are needed. They may also report symptoms like coughing, irritation or feeling unwell.

Check safety data sheets and labels

Safety data sheets and product labels explain the health risks of chemicals and how to use them safely. See Using safety data sheets: identifying hazards for more information.

Consider everyone on site

Airborne contaminants can affect:

  • Contractors
  • Sub‑contractors
  • Suppliers
  • Engineers and architects
  • Office staff working on site

PCBUs must consider all people who may be exposed.

Get support

Your WHS regulator can help you identify and manage airborne hazards. Certified occupational hygienists can provide specialist advice. Industry associations may also offer guidance.

Review and reassess

Reassess airborne contaminants whenever:

  • Materials change
  • Work methods or equipment change
  • Site conditions vary

If hazards are found, complete a workplace risk assessment and put appropriate controls in place.

Further links: