Paints, dyes, inks and adhesives are some of the most widely used
hazardous substances present within New Zealand and those using them need to be aware of
their responsibilities under the
Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act.
This page contains information to assist manufacturers, importers and retailers working with paints,
dyes, adhesives and other similar products. It provides a series of
links to information and guidance material on the following topics:
| Introduction | Download pdf |
| Approved handler test certificates | Download pdf |
| Storage of paints and surface coatings | Download pdf |
| Packages, transport and 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 |
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. E-book © ERMA New Zealand
Group Standards for Surface Coatings and Colorants
The Surface Coatings and Colourants Group Standards include any
material used as an adhesive, dye, ink, paint, pigment, or graphic
material, including any raw materials used in the manufacture of
these materials.
In addition there is a Solvents Group Standard which is also relevant
• About Group Standards
• Surface Coatings
and Colorants Group Standards
• Solvents Group Standard
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 are persons who
have knowledge of the hazardous substances they are using, have
experience in handing them and know what to do in an emergency.
If an approved handler is not available,
hazardous substances must be secured (i.e. locked away) to prevent
their unauthorised use. Other people may handle the substance if they have received guidance from
an approved handler and an approved handler is available to give advice at all times if required.
• Approved handler Test Certificate
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.
Substance Classification and Controls
ERMA New Zealand has published Summary of Approvals documents that set out the classifications
of a substance as well as any variations to the default controls. See:
• Summary of Approvals documents
ERMA New Zealand has also published Group Standards. These set out the requirements for
groups of similar substances. See:
• Group Standards
you may also find the classification and controls on an individual substance on the ERMA New Zealand Organism/Substance Search register on the ERMA New Zealand homepage.
You may search this register using, for example, the common name of a substance or its CAS number.
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.