New rules for antifouling paints

9 June 2015

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is reminding boaties and anyone else who paints boats of new rules for using antifouling paints.

From 1 July 2015, anyone using antifouling paints must make sure they work in a controlled work area.

This means they have to make sure none of the paint they spray can get out of the work area, and nobody else can get in while they are working.

They also have to put up signs to warn people about the work they are doing, and the measures people need to take to stay safe.

The new rules require anyone who removes antifouling paint from a boat to make sure that all the scrapings and other waste are collected and disposed of properly.

And a rule that came into force two years ago requires anyone who handles antifouling paint to use protective clothing or equipment to limit their exposure to the paint and its fumes.

We have created a brochure to help people understand the rules, and follow them.

This has been sent to marinas all around the country, and is available on the EPA website.

Download a brochure to learn how to stay safe with antifouling paints.

There are also new rules for people who make or import antifouling paints.

They have to make sure the paints have labels that tell people about setting up a controlled work area, and that they need to collect the waste from any maintenance work.

These new rules were created through a reassessment of all antifouling paints that the EPA completed in June 2013.

They are legally-binding, and people who don’t follow the rules may be prosecuted.

Antifouling paints are important for New Zealand.

They help boats run more efficiently, and limit the spread of marine pests around New Zealand’s coasts.

Antifouling paints can pose risks, and the 2013 reassessment set new rules to protect the health of people and the environment.

ENDS

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