Over 500 importers and manufacturers of hazardous substances have already registered their details with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), says EPA Manager, Hazardous Substance Compliance, Ray McMillan.
He says registration became mandatory under new rules brought in on 19 November 2015.
“Since then anyone who imports or manufactures hazardous substances for any purpose other than for personal use need to register their details with us within 30 days of first importing or manufacturing a hazardous substance. Even if you have been an importer and manufacturer for some time the EPA still requires your details,” he says.
“The rule applies to anyone who imports or manufactures a hazardous product for a commercial use. That includes for sale or trade or for use in a business setting – for example, a beautician might import a product to use on clients in his or her salon.”
McMillan says the term “hazardous substance” is very broad and covers many different products, from soaps and crayons to petrol and explosives. The EPA’s website has information about how to identify hazardous substances and information about the new rule.
There is also an online facility on the EPA’s website to make supplying business details and contact information easy and fast.
McMillan says registering is not only an important legal requirement it will also mean the EPA can keep manufacturers and importers up to date and informed about changes to New Zealand’s hazardous substances management regime.
