New Hazardous Chemical Information System to Support 2026 WEL Changes

Safe Work Australia has launched an enhanced Hazardous Chemical Information System (HCIS) to assist businesses in managing hazardous chemicals and preparing for the transition to workplace exposure limits (WELs), which take effect on 1 December 2026.

The upgraded HCIS offers easier access to critical hazardous chemical information, with a range of functional and data improvements designed to support effective WHS management systems, policies and safe work procedures. These enhancements make it simpler for PCBUs, WHS professionals and workers to locate and verify chemical classifications, labelling details and safety data sheet (SDS) information.

As part of the update, classification data based on the Globally Harmonised System (GHS) has been refreshed using information from the European Chemicals Agency and the Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme. This ensures that the guidance reflects current international and Australian regulatory information.

The HCIS is a guidance tool intended to support Australian manufacturers, importers and users of hazardous chemicals. It can assist manufacturers and importers to determine whether a substance or mixture is a hazardous chemical and, where it is, to classify it, label it appropriately and develop an SDS in line with the GHS and the model Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations. Integrating this information into your WHS documentation, including SWMS and chemical management procedures, can help demonstrate due diligence and compliance. For template SWMS and other tools to support implementation, see resources such as Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS).

Employers, PCBUs and other users of hazardous chemicals can also use the HCIS to cross-check the accuracy and completeness of SDS and labels supplied with products. This is particularly important where hazardous chemicals form part of broader WHS management systems or risk control strategies, and where policies and procedures rely on current and reliable chemical information.

Users are encouraged to explore the new HCIS and familiarise themselves with its features ahead of the commencement of WELs in December 2026. Any technical issues, data concerns or general feedback about the upgraded system can be provided directly to Safe Work Australia via chemicals@swa.gov.au.

Until the new WELs commence on 1 December 2026, employers and workplaces must continue to comply with the existing Workplace Exposure Standards for Airborne Contaminants (WES). These current WES remain available on the Safe Work Australia website, and the associated information can still be accessed via the previous version of HCIS. Workplaces should ensure their WHS risk assessments, exposure monitoring programs and control measures continue to align with the current WES while they prepare for the transition to WELs.