New chemical information system supports exposure limit transition
04 Aug 2026•BlueSafe Team•Source: Safe Work Australia
Safe Work Australia has released an updated Hazardous Chemical Information System (HCIS) to support the transition to workplace exposure limits, which take effect on 1 December 2026.
The new HCIS includes enhancements to make hazardous chemical information easier to find and access. The upgrade also updates GHS classification data from the European Chemicals Agency and the Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme.
Designed as a guidance tool for Australian chemical manufacturers, importers and users, HCIS can assist manufacturers and importers in identifying whether a product is a hazardous chemical.
For products identified as hazardous chemicals, the system can help manufacturers and importers classify and label them and prepare a safety data sheet (SDS) in line with the GHS and model WHS Regulations. Employers and other chemical users can also use HCIS to check information on safety data sheets and labels.
Employers and workplaces must continue complying with the Workplace exposure standards for airborne contaminants (WES) until the new workplace exposure limits begin on 1 December 2026. Current WES are available on Safe Work Australia's website, and WES information remains accessible through the previous HCIS.
Issues or feedback about the new system can be sent to chemicals@swa.gov.au.
How Blue Safe can help: Our WHS platform can help you organise registers, inspections and training records as your business prepares for the transition to workplace exposure limits. See Blue Safe WHS software