Polycyclic (or Poly Aromatic) Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of chemicals commonly found in workplaces where organic materials are burned or processed. Industries such as construction, mining, manufacturing, and transport regularly encounter PAHs through sources like diesel exhaust, asphalt, coal tar, and welding fumes. In Australia, and particularly for employers in Victoria, understanding the health risks of PAH exposure and knowing how to respond is critical for compliance, worker safety, and business continuity.
This comprehensive guide will help you recognise PAH-related health issues, understand your legal obligations, and implement effective health monitoring and return-to-work processes—while highlighting how Audiometrics & Medical Personnel can support your business with industry-leading services.
What Are PAHs and Where Are They Found?
PAHs are a group of over 100 chemicals formed during incomplete combustion of carbon-containing fuels.
Common workplace sources include:
- Diesel engine exhaust
- Asphalt and bitumen fumes
- Coal tar and coke oven emissions
- Welding and cutting of metals
- Soot and smoke from fires
Industries at risk:
- Construction (road paving, roofing)
- Mining and heavy industry
- Foundries and metal fabrication
- Transport and logistics
- Emergency services (firefighting)
Why Are PAHs a Concern for Employers?
- Health Risks: PAHs are known carcinogens. Long-term exposure can lead to various diseases, particularly of the lung, skin, and bladder.
- Acute Effects: Short-term exposure can cause skin irritation, eye discomfort, and respiratory symptoms.
- Legal Obligations: Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 and OHS Regulations, employers must identify, assess, and control exposure to hazardous substances, including PAHs.
- Reputation and Productivity: Protecting worker health reduces absenteeism, compensation claims, and reputational risk.
Recognising PAH-Related Health Symptoms
Acute (Short-Term) Symptoms
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation
- Coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- Skin redness, itching, or rash
- Headaches, dizziness, or nausea
Chronic (Long-Term) Health Effects
- Persistent cough or respiratory issues
- Skin changes or lesions (especially on exposed areas)
- Fatigue or unexplained weight loss
- Increased cancer risk (lung, skin, bladder)
Common Symptoms and Possible PAH Sources
| Symptom | Possible PAH Source |
| Skin rash/irritation | Asphalt, coal tar, soot |
| Chronic cough | Diesel exhaust, welding fumes |
| Eye discomfort | Smoke, bitumen fumes |
| Fatigue, headaches | Prolonged exposure to fumes |
How to Identify PAH Exposure in Your Workplace
- Conduct a Hazard Assessment: Identify tasks and areas where PAH exposure is likely.
- Review Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS): Check for PAH content in products and materials used.
- Monitor Air Quality: Use personal and area monitoring to measure PAH concentrations.
- Consult Workers: Ask about symptoms or concerns related to smoke, fumes, or dust.
Health Monitoring: Your Legal and Practical Responsibilities
- When Is Health Monitoring Required?
- If there is significant risk of exposure to PAHs above recommended levels.
- When workers are regularly exposed to processes generating PAHs (e.g., asphalt work, welding, coke ovens).
What Does Health Monitoring Involve?
- Baseline and periodic medical examinations
- Biological monitoring: Urine or blood tests for PAH metabolites (e.g., 1-hydroxypyrene)
- Skin and respiratory health checks
- Record keeping: Maintain confidential health records as per regulatory requirements
How to set up a health monitoring program:
- Engage a competent occupational health provider (like Audiometrics & Medical Personnel)
- Inform workers about the purpose and process
- Schedule regular assessments and follow up on abnormal results
Responding to Suspected or Confirmed PAH-Related Health Issues
What Should Employers Do?
- Remove the Worker from Further Exposure
- Temporarily reassign affected workers away from PAH sources.
- Initiate Medical Assessment
- Arrange for prompt medical evaluation and follow-up.
- Investigate the Source
- Review workplace controls and exposure records.
- Assess if controls are adequate or need improvement.
- Notify Relevant Authorities
- If a notifiable illness is diagnosed, report as required by WorkSafe Victoria.
- Review and Improve Controls
- Update risk assessments and implement stronger controls if needed.
How to Support Workers Returning to PAH-Related Duties
- Only allow return after clearance by a qualified health professional.
- Gradual reintroduction to tasks, with enhanced monitoring.
- Ongoing health surveillance and worker education.
New Developments: Innovations in PAH Detection and Control
- Real-time PAH Monitoring: Portable instruments now allow for on-the-spot detection of airborne PAHs, improving response times.
- Advanced PPE: New respirator and glove materials offer better protection against PAHs.
- Engineering Controls: Improved local exhaust ventilation and process enclosures are reducing exposures in high-risk industries.
New Developments: Innovations in PAH Detection and Control
- Real-time PAH Monitoring: Portable instruments now allow for on-the-spot detection of airborne PAHs, improving response times.
- Advanced PPE: New respirator and glove materials offer better protection against PAHs.
- Engineering Controls: Improved local exhaust ventilation and process enclosures are reducing exposures in high-risk industries.
How Audiometrics & Medical Personnel Can Help
Why Choose Us?
- Industry-leading PAH exposure assessments and health monitoring programs
- Onsite biological monitoring, medical checks, and reporting
- Expert advice on risk assessment, control implementation, and compliance documentation
- Support for all industries, including construction, mining, and manufacturing
- Flexible scheduling to minimise disruption to your operations
Our Services Include:
- Comprehensive PAH exposure assessments
- Biological and medical health monitoring
- Tailored risk management and control plans
- Worker education and compliance support
Protect your team and your business—partner with the experts.
Explore our PAH Assessment Services or contact us for a tailored consultation.
