More than two thirds of Australian workers are estimated to have been exposed to at least one physical or chemical workplace hazard, according to new research from Safe Work Australia.
The 2026 Australian Worker Exposure Survey found that 68% of workers experienced at least one physical or chemical hazard, while 28.9% experienced high level exposure.
Construction workers face multiple hazards
Exposure to multiple physical or chemical hazards was highest in construction at 68.2%, followed by agriculture, forestry and fishing at 60.1% and mining at 60%.
Solar UV was the most common physical or chemical hazard, affecting an estimated 32.4% of workers, equivalent to approximately 4.87 million people.
Silica exposure was estimated to affect 13.6% of workers, or approximately 2.04 million people. Exposure was highest in construction at 71.8% and mining at 63.8%.
Apprentices face increased exposure
Apprentices and trainees were more likely than other workers to encounter several hazards.
An estimated 51.1% were exposed to heat, while 35.7% were exposed to silica, 17% to lead and 13.7% to asbestos.
Psychosocial workplace hazards
Psychosocial hazards were also widespread. Some 68.3% of workers reported experiencing cognitive demands such as high concentration often or all of the time, while 37.3% experienced tight deadlines or pressure.
The research also identified concerns around worker involvement and support. Some 21.8% disagreed that they had a say in workplace changes, while 16.8% disagreed that they received fair recognition.
Safe Work Australia said ongoing monitoring can help identify emerging risks and target prevention measures as technology, working practices and employment arrangements continue to change.
The survey establishes a national baseline for monitoring changes in workplace hazard exposure over time.
