Test Certificates for Stationary Container Systems

Stationary tanks or process containers are required to have a Stationary Container System Test Certificate.

What is a Test Certificate for a Stationary Container System?

This Test Certificate is a 'warrant of fitness' that shows the Stationary Container System is compliant with the law. It is different from a Location Test Certificate, and in some instances both may be required.

What is a Stationary Container System?

A Stationary Container System is a stationary tank or process container, together with any associated equipment such as its pipelines and fittings.

When do I need a Test Certificate?

Tanks or process containers holding hazardous liquids or gases above specified threshold quantities require a Test Certificate. It doesn't matter whether the substance is flammable, corrosive, toxic or ecotoxic, or whether the container is above or below ground. If the limits are exceeded, a Stationary Container System Test Certificate is required.

For example, a Test Certificate is required for:

  • any below ground tank of more than 250 litres
  • an above ground tank of more than 2,500 litres holding highly flammable substances such as petrol, solvents or acetone
  • an above ground tank of more than 5,000 litres holding hazardous substances other than those which are highly flammable
  • an above ground tank of more than 500 litres holding a hazardous gas such as LPG or chlorine.

A Test Certificate may also be required when a tank is connected to a burner or stationary internal combustion engine.

Further information on when a Test Certificate is required is given in the ERMA New Zealand Information Sheet Number 29.

How do I get a Test Certificate?

A Test Certificate is issued by a Test Certifier. A register of Test Certifiers is available from the ERMA NZ web site.

What can be done if I don't comply?

Not all existing tanks or process containers (ie generally those constructed no later than 31 March 2004) may be able to comply with the requirements. In this case, a Compliance Plan will need to be submitted to ERMA New Zealand. A Test Certifier will advise you on how to do this.

All new tanks or process containers must have a Test Certificate before a hazardous substance is delivered into them.

What is a Compliance Plan?

A Compliance Plan is an alternative to meeting the legal requirement for existing tanks or process containers (i.e. constructed no later than 31 March 2004). This plan must specify the steps to:

  • upgrade the Stationary Container System to achieve compliance, and the timeframe to do this, or
  • manage the risks of non-compliance.

A Compliance Plan cannot be submitted for any tank or process container constructed after 31 March 2004.

See Information Sheet Number 29 for further information on Compliance Plans.

How do I apply for a Compliance Plan?

If your Test Certifier advises a Compliance Plan should be submitted, the Person in Charge must send to ERMA New Zealand a completed 'Application for a Compliance Plan'.

This form is available at online or call 0800 376 234 for a copy to be posted out. Guidance on how to complete this form is also available.

Further Information

For information on hazardous substances compliance visit www.ermanz.govt.nz/hs/hscompliance.asp or call our Hazardous Substances Compliance Line on 0800 376234.