Embalmers

Embalming Briefing Documents

Embalming is an essential service that is offered by most funeral service companies. It involves the handling of a wide variety of hazardous chemicals which are covered by the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act. Operators in such areas need to be aware of their responsibilities under the legislation and be knowledgeable in the safe handling and storage practises for their substances.

This page contains information to assist embalmers and others working in the funeral service sector on managing these hazardous chemicals in their workplace. It provides a series of links to information and guidance material on the following topics:

Index and Introduction Download pdf
Approved handler test certificates Download pdf
Storage of embalming substances Download pdf
Tracking Download pdf
Separation distances or controlled zones and hazardous atmosphere zones Download pdf
Hazardous substance identification Download pdf
Emergency management Download pdf
Spill procedures and spill kits Download pdf

ERMA New Zealand has also released a downloadable e-book containing all of these documents and an index. Download the e-book here embalmers.zip [1.3MB]
Please note the zip file contains an e-book which is a self contained executable file that does not require installation. The executable has been checked for virii, trojans and is guaranteed to be free of adware and spyware.

Location Test Certificate Information

A location test certificate verifies that hazardous substances are stored correctly away from other structures, combustible materials and ignition sources. The certificate verifiers that relevant HSNO controls and requirements have been adhered too.
Further information is available at:
Location Test Certificates

Approved Handler Information

The most hazardous substances are required to be under the control of an approved handler. Other people may handle the substance if they have received guidance from the approved handler and the approved handler is available to give advice at all times if required. If approved handler is not available, hazardous substances must be secured (i.e. locked away) to prevent their unauthorised use.
• Further information is available at: Approved Handler Test Certifications

Register of Certifiers

A Test Certifier is an individual approved by ERMA NZ to issue Test Certificates confirming that sites, individuals or containers are compliant with the HSNO Act.
Register of Certifiers

HSNO Legislation

The HSNO Act and its regulations are available at the Government Legislation Website.

HSNO Enforcement

The Department of Labour enforces the HSNO legislation in places of work. You can contact an enforcement officer for guidance and advice on HSNO compliance at your Regional Department of Labour Office.

Contact ERMA New Zealand
If you have any questions about hazardous substance compliance contact the Hazardous Substances Compliance Line:

Phone: 0800 376 234, or
Email: hsinfo@ermanz.govt.nz

Or contact us at:
ERMA New Zealand
PO Box 131
Wellington.