March 31, 2026

Understanding the New Physical Agents Regulations: What Employers Need to Know The Physical Agents Regulations, which came into effect on 6 March 2025, is set to replace the Environmental Regulations for Workplaces after an 18‑month transition period. These new regulations modernise how workplaces identify, measure, and control exposure to various physical agents that could cause injury or illness. Below is a practical, easy‑to‑digest summary of what the new legislation requires and how businesses can prepare. What Are Physical Agents? A physical agent is any energy source that may harm employees through exposure. The new Regulations outline several key occupational stressors: Indoor air quality is included because it is directly influenced by physical energy sources such as ventilation, heating, cooling, filtration, and airflow systems. A Programme-Based Approach A major shift in the new Regulations is the requirement for a Physical Agents programme-based approach—a structured, ongoing process integrated into an organisation’s existing occupational health and safety management system. This programme must: 1. Anticipating Exposure Competent Person Requirements Exposure monitoring must be performed by a competent person—as defined in the Regulations—who has: This person must be registered as an Approved Inspection Authority (AIA) with the Department of Employment and Labour and may or may not be the same person who conducted the exposure risk assessment. Monitoring Equipment All equipment used to monitor physical agents must: 2. Identifying Hazards: Conducting an Exposure Risk Assessment The employer is responsible for ensuring the workplace remains healthy and safe. A thorough exposure risk assessment must include: Steps in the assessment: When should assessments be reviewed? At least every two years, or sooner if: 3. Analysing Exposure Results Once monitoring is complete, the findings must be evaluated. Employers should: When is exposure a problem? When it exceeds Occupational Exposure Limits (OELs). The Regulations (see link below) include detailed tables—here are the key limits: Thermal Stress (table 1) Illumination (table 4) Indoor Air Quality (table 3) Vibration (table 1) Non‑ionising Radiation (table 1) Electromagnetic fields 4. Controlling Exposure to Physical Agents Once risks are identified, the employer must implement controls. The action plan should address: Final Thoughts The Physical Agents Regulations bring significant changes, emphasising proactive, integrated risk management. By developing a comprehensive Physical Agents programme and ensuring all competency, monitoring, and control requirements are met, employers can protect their workforce and comply with the new legislation. Click here to read the full OHS Act, 1993 (Act no. 85 of 1993) Physical Agents Regulations and view all tables referred to above. For more information, visit our website or contact ohs@pinionza.com.