The Right HAZCHEM Sign

The Right HAZCHEM Sign

How to select the right HAZCHEM sign. in New Zealand, the process for determining the appropriate HAZCHEM sign follows similar principles to those described globally, but it must align with New Zealand-specific regulations and guidelines. Here’s an adapted version of the steps for New Zealand conditions:

1. Identify the Substance:
   • Obtain the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the substance. The SDS provides detailed information about the chemical, including its hazards, properties, and handling instructions.
2. Check New Zealand Legal and Regulatory Requirements:
   • Ensure compliance with New Zealand’s Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 (HSNO) and WorkSafe New Zealand regulations.
   • Refer to the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) guidelines for transporting hazardous materials.
   • Consult the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) New Zealand for specific labeling and signage requirements.
3. Determine the HAZCHEM Code:
   • The HAZCHEM code can often be found in the SDS under the emergency information section. If not, it may be necessary to consult the EPA New Zealand or other regulatory guides that provide HAZCHEM codes based on the type of substance and its hazards.
4. Select the Appropriate HAZCHEM Sign:
   • Use the determined HAZCHEM code to select the appropriate sign. Ensure that the sign complies with the New Zealand standard for hazardous substances (NZS 5433) and includes the HAZCHEM code and any relevant symbols or warnings.
5. Consider the Transport and Storage Context:
   • Evaluate the context in which the hazardous material will be transported or stored. Ensure that the sign is visible and placed in a location that is easily seen by handlers and emergency responders.
   • For transport, make sure the sign complies with NZTA regulations for hazardous substances on vehicles.
6. Review Emergency Response Plan:
   • Confirm that the chosen HAZCHEM sign aligns with your organization’s emergency response plan. This ensures that all personnel are aware of the hazards and the appropriate response measures.
   • Ensure that emergency responders in New Zealand are familiar with the HAZCHEM code and the necessary actions.

Example:

Suppose you are dealing with a flammable liquid, such as Methanol. The steps might look like this:

1. Identify the Substance: Methanol.
2. Check New Zealand Legal and Regulatory Requirements: Consult HSNO and WorkSafe New Zealand regulations on hazardous materials labeling. Refer to the NZTA guidelines for transporting Methanol.
3. Determine the HAZCHEM Code: Refer to the SDS for Methanol, which might list the HAZCHEM code as “2WE”.
4. Select the Appropriate HAZCHEM Sign: Choose a sign that displays “2WE” clearly, along with relevant symbols for flammability. Ensure the sign complies with NZS 5433.
5. Consider the Transport and Storage Context: Place the sign on the storage tank or transport vehicle as required by NZTA regulations.
6. Review Emergency Response Plan: Ensure the emergency response plan is updated to include procedures for handling Methanol spills or fires and that it aligns with New Zealand emergency response protocols.

By following these adapted steps, you can determine the appropriate HAZCHEM sign for hazardous materials in New Zealand, ensuring compliance with local regulations and safety standards.