Biological Contamination
HSE Australia assesses biological contamination in workplaces through targeted air, water and soil sampling.
We identify harmful microorganisms, confirm exposure levels through NATA-approved laboratory analysis, and provide practical guidance to help businesses manage risk and protect worker health.
When contamination is suspected, biological contamination testing provides defensible evidence so that organisations can take appropriate action, quickly.
Contact us to arrange a risk assessment for biological contamination in your workplace.
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What is biological contamination in the workplace?
Biological contamination is the presence of harmful living organisms in a workplace environment. It is classified as a workplace health hazard under WHS risk management frameworks.
Biological contaminants can include:
- Bacteria
- Fungi and mould spores
- Viruses
- Legionella in water systems
- Microbial growth in soil or wastewater
- and mould sporesLegionella in water systems
These organisms can become airborne, aerosolised through water systems, and can spread through surface contact. In enclosed workspaces, like offices and factories, poor ventilation and moisture can accelerate that contamination.
Our experts are also specialised in:
Mould contamination is one of the most common biological risks in commercial properties, especially after water intrusion. It is a serious workplace hazard, and can cause severe health issues in some people.
Once mould contamination has been identified, business owners have an obligation to remediate. HSE Australia is specialised in conducting mould inspections, and provides comprehensive mould assessments, including airborne moisture testing.
Airborne contaminants can also be present after an incident of sewerage leak backflow. Our Occupational Hygienists conduct air, soil and surface sampling to determine the presence of bacterial contamination after a wastewater backflow incident.
What are common sources of biological contamination?
Biological contamination usually originates from moisture or stagnation, or from organic waste.
Common sources are:
- Cooling towers, air conditioning plants, and HVAC systems (Legionella)
- Potable water and rainwater tanks
- Sewerage backflow incidents
- Flood or water-damaged buildings
- Evaporation ponds and dams
- Contaminated land
What occupational hygiene services help manage biological contamination?
HSE Australia provides occupational hygiene services to assess, monitor and guide remediation of biological contamination in workplace environments.
Our services cover:
- Mould inspection and assessment
- Post-sewerage backflow contamination assessment
- Ongoing risk management assessments, compliance, and advice
Biological contamination inspections and analysis
Biological contamination is manageable when it is correctly identified. If you suspect contamination in air, water or soil, contact HSE Australia to arrange a workplace risk assessment and sampling plan.
If remediation is required, we guide businesses through the process with clear, practical recommendations and can help you to develop an OHS system to manage future risk.
Assessment, Sampling & Analysis of Contamination in Air, Water & Soil.
HSE Australia offers a wide range of Occupation Hygiene and Risk Management Services in the area of Biological Contamination. Get in touch for an individual quote.
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Frequently asked Questions
Health Safety Environment Australia
How does biological contamination affect worker health?
Exposure to biological contamination can impact respiratory and immune health, causing both short and longer-term health concerns for workers.
Certain contaminants, such as Legionella bacteria, can even cause serious illness if inhaled through contaminated water droplets.
Reported symptoms often include:
- Respiratory irritation
- Coughing or wheezing
- Eye and skin irritation
- Headaches
- Allergic reactions
- Asthma exacerbation
How is biological contamination identified and assessed?
A biological contamination assessment usually involves:
Identification Process
Identification Process
What We Do
How It Helps
Visual Review
Assess visible risk and contamination sources
Identifies sampling areas and the risk of taking samples
Air, Soil, or Water Sampling
Representative samples are collected by our occupational hygienists
Provides ability to test for contamination
Lab Analysis
Samples are tested in our NATA-accredited laboratory
Quantifies contamination content, levels, and risk
Reporting
Practical control recommendations are provided
Supports remediation decisions with clear, appropriate steps aligned with national guidelines
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