Purpose - This paper aims to develop of an industrial air pollution monitoring system (IAPMOS) as one of the target solutions for monitoring mechanisms in the workplace. Design/methodology/approach - Quality function deployment approaches were used in this study. The process of getting data from workers was by using questionnaires. The questionnaire regarding the welding process work environment was given to two selected automotive industries located in Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia. Findings - From the data, the system development was analysed in order to formalize the specific needs of workers and management. The preliminary data were discussed regarding the development process and reliability factors that influenced the IAPMOS. The voice of the customer was then input during the design stage of IAPMOS. Research limitations/implications - The monitoring of industrial air pollution which was done in the welding process used a direct reading method and the date was assigned as "base line" during system development. The standards International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001: 2008, ISO 14001: 2008, and the Malaysia Standard, MS 1722: 2003 were the major sources helping to improve the working environments. The working environment is important to productivity and has a direct impact on human intervention. Social implications - Poor working environments will give a negative impact and an uncondusive work environment will create a potential health hazard and less productivity. Originality/value - The paper provides information to aid in improving workplace environment.