HSWA 2015 + Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996
Hazardous substances — NZ workplace obligations
If your workplace uses chemicals, fuels, solvents, or cleaning products, you have obligations under both HSWA and the HSNO Act. Here's what you must have in place.
📋 HSWA 2015, Section 36 + HSNO Act 1996
Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Available for every hazardous substance — always
A current SDS (within 5 years) must be accessible to workers at all times for every hazardous substance on site. Not locked away. Workers must be trained to read and understand it.
Substance inventory
Keep a register
Maintain a register of all hazardous substances — name, hazard classification, quantity on site, location. Must be available to emergency services and WorkSafe.
Storage rules
- Store per SDS and HSNO regulations
- Segregate incompatible substances (flammables away from oxidisers)
- Flammable liquid stores: minimum separation from ignition sources
- Bunding (secondary containment) above threshold quantities
- Secure against unauthorised access
- Appropriate signage displayed
Worker training
Before anyone handles a hazardous substance
Training must cover: the hazard, safe handling, correct PPE, emergency response, and how to read the SDS. Must be documented and reviewed when substances or processes change.
Health monitoring
For workers regularly exposed to substances with chronic effects (lead, silica, pesticides, solvents) — baseline, regular, and exit health assessments may be required. Consult an occupational health provider.
Disposal
Cannot go down drains or in general waste. Use a licensed waste contractor or council hazardous waste collection. Dispose containers per SDS instructions.
Source: HSWA 2015; HSNO Act 1996; HSW (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017. WorkSafe:
worksafe.govt.nz. General information only.
Frequently asked questions
Do cleaning products count?
Many do. Bleach, drain cleaner, oven cleaner, and many industrial cleaners are classified hazardous. If it has hazard pictograms, treat it as a hazardous substance.
What if a worker is exposed?
Remove from exposure, follow SDS first aid, seek medical attention. Significant exposure may be a notifiable incident — call WorkSafe.
Do I need an HSL certificate?
Required when quantities exceed certain thresholds. A test certifier must certify the location. Check WorkSafe guidance for your substances.
What is a tracking substance?
High-hazard substances must be tracked through the supply chain. If you purchase tracked substances, you must participate in the tracking system.