Hazardous Substances

The enactment of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act (HSNO) has made very significant changes to the ways in which companies are required to manage the chemicals they import, manufacture, use or sell.

All new chemicals must now be approved by the Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA). The approval process includes an assessment of the risk that the substance poses to the environment and human health.

The legislation is still being changed and substances can be managed through group standards, transfer gazettes and/or the regulations.

Further information regarding HSNO and the transfer of substances is available on the ERMA web site: www.ermanz.govt.nz. 

The complexity of the regulations means most companies need a little (or a lot of) help to understand the requirements and to work out the most efficient ways of complying. HaS Expertise have developed a number of tools to help companies – some of which are available free.

These tools are summarised below, and more information can be found by visiting the corresponding page in the Hazardous Substances sub-menu.

• New Products - how to ensure new imported or manufactured products are legal in New Zealand
• Requirements - review of relevance of chemical related legislation to your business
• Identification of chemicals, preparation of inventories and initial assessment
• Chemical Risk Assessment takes into account potential exposure to chemicals as well as the consequences or severity of effects.
• Classification of substances according to ERMA criteria
• Assessment of HSNO relevant Controls
• MSDSs - Material Safety Data Sheets and Labelling
• Approved Handlers - training for people responsible for chemicals
• Test Certificates
• Emergency planning including bunding requirements
• Ongoing management audits and inspections