Embalmers

Embalming Briefing Documents

Embalming is an essential service that is offered by most funeral service companies today and requires the handling of a wide variety of hazardous chemicals which are covered by the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act. As such 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

The documents above are in pdf format. 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.

Embalming Products Requiring a Location Test Certificate

Embalming products with toxic or flammable properties requiring an Approved Handler

Location Test Certificate Information

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

Approved Handler Information

The most hazardous substances are required to be under the control of an approved handler. Approved handlers must meet the qualifications set out in the regulations made under the HSNO Act and must be available. If an approved handler is not available, hazardous substances must be secured (i.e. locked away) to prevent their unauthorised use.
Quick Guide Approved Handlers

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.
Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996
Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Regulations

ERMA New Zealand has also published Transfer Notices in the New Zealand Gazette.
• Transfer Notice for dangerous goods
• Transfer Notices for other substances are also available.
Transfer Notice Documentation

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.

Information on HSNO compliance is also available from ERMA New Zealand. Contact our Hazardous Substance Compliance Line:

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

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