New Biological Hazards Code of Practice - What Every Industry Needs to Know
Safe Work Australia has released a draft Model Code of Practice for managing biological hazards in the workplace, and it could significantly reshape WHS obligations across Australian industries. With the public consultation period now open, it's critical that businesses and professionals across all sectors understand the potential implications and have their say.
What Is the Draft Code of Practice About?
The draft Model Code of Practice: Managing the Risks of Biological Hazards at Work outlines national guidance for identifying, assessing, and controlling biological hazards. It applies across all workplaces and is designed to support compliance with duties under the Model Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act and Regulation.
Unlike previous codes focused only on high-risk sectors, this draft code is broadly scoped to cover biological risks that can arise in any industry or workplace setting.
Why This Matters Now - Consultation Is Open
Safe Work Australia is currently seeking feedback on the draft code, with the goal of finalising a legally enforceable document that will apply across all jurisdictions that have adopted the Model WHS laws.
If adopted, the new Code will increase expectations on risk management and documentation of biological hazards. Industries that may not have traditionally focused on biological risks, such as retail or education, will need to reassess their WHS processes.
Consultation closes September 2025, now is the time to review and respond.
Which Industries Will Be Affected?
While traditionally associated with healthcare and laboratories, biological hazards occur in many workplaces. The draft Code specifically recognises biological risks across the following sectors
Healthcare and Aged Care
Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing
Veterinary and Animal Care
Meat, Poultry, and Food Processing
Manufacturing (especially organic materials, textiles, and bio-based production)
Construction and Demolition (including sewage and water systems)
Transport, Logistics, and Waste Handling
Early Childhood Education and Schools
Retail and Hospitality
Laboratories and Research Facilities
Cleaning and Maintenance Services
Emergency Services
If your business involves exposure to organic matter, body fluids, waste, animals, food, or people, this Code is relevant to you.
Key Implications of the Draft Code
The proposed Code introduces specific expectations and updates for WHS duty holders, including
1. Explicit Identification of Biological Hazards
Businesses will need to systematically identify biological hazards such as
Mould, fungi, bacteria, and viruses
Body fluids (blood, saliva)
Sewage, animal waste, and decaying organic material
Airborne pathogens in poorly ventilated areas
2. Stronger Risk Assessment Protocols
The draft Code sets out a structured risk management approach
Source and route of exposure
Likelihood and severity of harm
Control measures (PPE, ventilation, hygiene practices)
3. More Emphasis on Hierarchy of Controls
Businesses are expected to go beyond PPE and cleaning. Controls should prioritise elimination, substitution, and engineering solutions, such as
Isolation of contaminated zones
Ventilation systems
Contactless procedures
Safer cleaning methods
4. Training, Consultation, and Documentation
Organisations must
Train workers on recognising and managing biological risks
Consult workers on control measures
Document risk assessments and controls (e.g. using WHS Risk registers)
5. Broader Responsibility Across All Roles
Officers, managers, and workers are expected to take active roles in managing risks, including monitoring new biological threats (e.g. emerging diseases or outbreaks).
What Should Your Business Do Now?
If you're in any of the industries listed above, or manage environments where biological materials are present, here’s how to prepare.
Review the Draft Code
Visit Safe Work Australia's consultation page and read the full Draft Model Code of Practice: Managing the Risks of Biological Hazards at Work.
Submit Feedback During the Consultation Phase
This is your opportunity to shape how the Code is applied in your industry. Feedback is especially encouraged from industry associations, HSRs, and WHS professionals.
Start Reviewing Your Current Risk Controls
Even before the Code is finalised, reviewing existing WHS procedures around hygiene, infection control, air quality, waste handling, and biohazard training is wise.
Why Your Input Matters
The final version of this Code will likely become enforceable through regulation. Early understanding and input help ensure
It reflects practical realities across different industries
Implementation is achievable and effective
Risk management is aligned with current workplace needs
Whether you're managing a manufacturing site, an aged care facility, or a retail shopfront, this Code will affect how you identify and control biological hazards.
Final Thoughts - Be Informed, Be Heard
This proposed Code is a significant step forward in formalising Australia’s WHS approach to biological risks. Don't be caught off guard when it becomes law.
Review the Code
Discuss with your industry networks
Make a submission.
Need Help Interpreting the Code or Preparing Your Feedback?
At Lane Safety Systems, we support businesses across all sectors in navigating WHS obligations and managing biological risks. Our consultants can help you
Review current practices
Prepare documentation aligned with the proposed Code
Submit feedback during the consultation period
Contact us today for advice or assistance.