Poly Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH)

1. What are Poly Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and why are they a workplace concern?

Poly Aromatic Hydrocarbons, also known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, are a group of chemicals formed when organic materials such as coal, oil, gas, diesel, wood, or bitumen do not burn completely. In workplaces, PAHs are commonly generated by diesel exhaust, hot asphalt and bitumen works, combustion processes, and the disturbance of contaminated materials.

PAHs are a concern because workers may be exposed through inhalation of airborne contaminants or through skin contact with residues. Exposure is often not obvious, particularly where diesel equipment or high temperature processes are used routinely. Australian WHS regulators recognise PAHs as hazardous substances, which means employers have a legal duty to identify exposure risks and manage them appropriately.

Audiometrics & Medical Personnel helps organisations identify where PAHs may be present, assess actual exposure levels, and provide clear advice on compliance and control measures.

2. Is PAH testing mandatory under Australian WHS regulations?

Australian legislation does not always use the word mandatory, but under WHS Regulations, employers are required to identify hazardous substances and assess risks where exposure is known or reasonably foreseeable. PAHs fall under this obligation.

If PAHs are present or likely to be generated in the workplace, air monitoring or other forms of assessment are required to demonstrate that worker exposure is below exposure standards and as low as reasonably practicable. Regulators in NSW and Victoria routinely expect PAH exposure assessment where combustion by-products, diesel emissions, or asphalt materials are involved.

Audiometrics supports businesses by determining whether PAH monitoring is required and conducting assessments that meet WorkSafe and EPA expectations.

3. How do I know if my workplace needs a PAH exposure assessment?

A PAH exposure assessment is usually required when workplace activities involve combustion processes or petroleum-based materials. Common triggers include diesel-powered plant operating indoors or underground, asphalt paving and road construction, manufacturing processes involving furnaces or kilns, waste management activities, or work on contaminated or legacy industrial sites.

If there is uncertainty, regulators expect employers to take a precautionary approach. Conducting a PAH occupational hygiene assessment provides evidence that risks have been properly evaluated.

Audiometrics assists by reviewing your work processes, materials, and environment to determine whether PAH monitoring is necessary and what type of assessment is appropriate.

4. What are the health risks associated with PAH exposure?

The health effects of PAH exposure depend on the specific compounds involved, the level of exposure, and the duration of contact. Short-term exposure may cause respiratory or skin irritation, while long-term or repeated exposure to certain PAHs has been associated with more serious health outcomes.

From a WHS perspective, the key issue is not diagnosing illness but preventing exposure. Regulators focus on whether employers have identified the risk, measured exposure where required, and implemented suitable controls.

Audiometrics approaches PAH assessment as a preventative measure, helping employers understand exposure levels early and take action before health issues arise.

5. How is PAH testing carried out in a workplace environment?

PAH testing is not a one-size-fits-all process. The assessment method depends on how PAHs are generated and how workers may be exposed. Testing may involve personal air monitoring, static air sampling, surface wipe sampling, or soil testing in contaminated environments.

Audiometrics conducts PAH testing as part of a structured occupational hygiene assessment. This includes reviewing tasks and materials, selecting appropriate sampling methods, conducting on-site monitoring using calibrated equipment, and analysing samples through accredited laboratories. Results are then interpreted against relevant Australian exposure standards.

This approach ensures that testing reflects real working conditions and produces defensible results.

6. What exposure standards apply to PAHs in Australia?

Safe Work Australia publishes workplace exposure standards for certain PAHs and requires employers to ensure exposure does not exceed these limits. In addition, WHS legislation requires exposure to be kept as low as reasonably practicable, even when results are below published limits.

Exposure standards are supported by guidance from WorkSafe NSW, WorkSafe Victoria, and EPA authorities, particularly where PAHs are present in contaminated environments.

Audiometrics helps employers interpret monitoring results correctly, understand how they relate to exposure standards, and determine whether additional controls or monitoring are required.

7. Which industries are most likely to require PAH monitoring?

PAH monitoring is most commonly required in industries where combustion by-products or petroleum materials are present. These include mining and resources, road and asphalt construction, manufacturing and heavy industry, petrochemical and refining facilities, waste management and recycling, power generation, contaminated land remediation, and transport infrastructure such as ports and rail yards.

In NSW and Victoria, PAH exposure assessment is frequently undertaken as part of broader occupational hygiene programs or in response to regulatory oversight.

Audiometrics has experience conducting PAH assessments across these industries and understands the specific exposure scenarios involved.

8. How does PAH testing support WorkSafe and EPA compliance?

WorkSafe and EPA authorities expect employers to demonstrate that hazardous substances have been identified, assessed, and controlled. PAH testing provides objective evidence of exposure levels and shows that a proactive approach has been taken.

Monitoring results, when supported by a clear occupational hygiene report, help demonstrate due diligence during inspections, audits, or investigations. This is particularly important when managing high-risk activities or contaminated sites.

Audiometrics provides regulator-ready reports that clearly explain methods, results, and recommended actions in language that inspectors and safety managers can understand.

9. Can PAH monitoring be combined with other exposure assessments?

Yes. PAHs often occur alongside other hazardous substances such as diesel particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, welding fumes, or respirable dust. Assessing these risks together provides a more accurate picture of overall exposure and reduces the need for multiple site visits.

Audiometrics routinely integrates PAH testing with other occupational hygiene assessments, helping businesses manage multiple compliance requirements efficiently and cost-effectively.

10. How does Audiometrics & Medical Personnel support businesses beyond testing?

PAH testing is only one part of effective risk management. Audiometrics & Medical Personnel supports businesses by providing practical advice on exposure controls, supporting WHS documentation, and assisting with ongoing monitoring programs where required.

Our role is to help organisations understand their obligations, protect workers, and maintain compliance with WHS and EPA expectations across NSW, Victoria, and nationally. Clients value our experience, clear communication, and focus on real workplace outcomes rather than just laboratory results.