Welcome to Aquainnz
We all encounter hazardous substances in our daily lives - from petrol and bleach to pesticide and ink. At home, these are usually only available in very small quantities and as long as you read (and follow) the instructions for use and storage, you are probably meeting the requirements of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 (HSNO Act). However, if you use hazardous substances at work then you probably need to take a number of extra precautions to meet the requirements of this Act.
What do I need to know?
How a substance in each class is to be managed and controlled is set out in the HSNO Act. The more hazardous a substance is, the tighter the controls are.
You may be required to have:
- An Approved Handler on site or available at all times.
- A Location Test Certificate to ensure all hazardous substances are safely stored.
- Control zones or hazardous atmosphere zones.
- A detailed emergency response plan.
- Detailed site plans showing the location of hazardous substances, control zones and hazardous atmosphere zones.
- Detailed labelling on all packaging AND signs to warn of appropriate hazards.
- Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all hazardous substances available on site.
- The correct safety equipment for safe handling of substances and emergencies (e.g. breathing apparatus and fire extinguishers).
To find out more about the requirements for the chemicals stored at your workplace, contact us today. Give us a list of the chemicals that you have, and their quantities, and we will quickly tell you whether you need a Location Test Certificate, or Approved Handlers.
FREE initial consultation*
Call us today to discuss your requirements. Tell us which chemicals you have and their quantities, and we'll let you know whether you are actually required to have a Location Test Certificate or Approved Handlers.
* This only includes an initial assessment of your requirements. Should you need our services to meet your responsibilities under the HSNO Act, charges will apply for these services.
Why do I need to do this?
The penalties for breaching the HSNO Act are fines of up to $500,000 (and $50,000 per day for continuing offences), or up to three months imprisonment.
You may also find that your insurance is invalid if you don't meet your obligations under the HSNO Act.
It's good for the safety of your employees, customers, neighbours and the environment.
How much will this cost?
The costs vary depending on your requirements. The number and type of chemicals and/or sites will influence the cost. Why not contact us to find out today? Your initial phone/email consult is free of charge. Please make sure you have your list of chemicals and quantities handy.