Safe Work Australia is seeking feedback on options to improve the safety of workers undertaking work that may expose them to lead.
Exposure to lead can cause significant harm to the health of workers and other people in the workplace.
Part 7.2 of the model WHS laws (the lead regulations) set out specific requirements that apply to workplaces where lead processes are carried out. These requirements include providing information to workers, controlling the risk of lead contamination, identifying and notifying lead work, and providing health monitoring.
Despite these requirements, recent incidents and stakeholder feedback suggest that the current lead regulations may not be adequately protecting workers, there may be gaps in awareness and application of duties, and the regulations may be challenging to implement and enforce.
Safe Work Australia is seeking feedback on the options identified to address issues with the lead regulations, including implementation issues. Safe Work Australia also welcomes feedback on additional issues and options which should be explored.
Feedback from this consultation will be used to prepare advice for consideration by Safe Work Australia Members.
Have your say
We welcome submissions from all interested parties. Visit our Consultation Hub to read the consultation paper and respond to the questions through our online survey, or by uploading a written submission.
The consultation is open until 11.59 pm (AEST) on Monday 24 August 2026.