Australian Worker Exposure Survey

About the Australian Worker Exposure Survey

The Australian Worker Exposure Survey (AWES 2026) aims to improve our understanding of workplace hazard exposure across Australia and support prevention-focused work health and safety (WHS) action.

More than 6,600 workers aged 15 and over participated in the survey between December 2025 and February 2026. Participants completed a structured questionnaire, either online or by telephone.

Exposure assessments

Estimating exposure through a survey can be challenging, as workers are unlikely to know the extent to which they’re exposed to hazards. To address this, participants were asked questions about the tasks they perform in their jobs. This task-based information was then used to assess the likelihood and level of exposure to each hazard agent.

The Occupational Integrated Database Exposure Assessment System (OccIDEAS) was used to support this approach. OccIDEAS uses algorithms, developed by occupational hygienists and epidemiologists, to translate task information into evidence-based exposure estimates. It applies consistent rules across responses to ensure reliable comparisons.

The AWES 2026 hazard agents were selected through a structured process that involved:

• reviewing current evidence
• consulting with stakeholders
• aligning with national policy priorities.

AWES 2026 hazard agents 

Psychosocial hazards

The survey also collected self reported exposure to a range of psychosocial hazards. The questions aligned with the Model Code of Practice: Managing psychosocial hazards at work, to ensure consistency with national work health and safety guidance.
AWES 2026 also explores the relationship between psychosocial hazards and other workplace hazards.