Revised requirements for handling and using petrol

The Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA New Zealand) has revised requirements for handling and using petrol on farms.

ERMA New Zealand has removed the approved handler control for farms of 4 hectares or larger where less than 2000 litres of petrol is stored. This means that a farmer will no longer require an approved handler certificate for petrol, nor will an approved handler have to be available.

ERMA New Zealand Chief Executive Rob Forlong, who initiated the reassessment of the approved handler control, says the Authority undertook the reassessment following representations from farming groups.

"We are always conscious of what impact the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act may have on compliance costs to industry and the economy generally, and to ensure that the level of controls applied is only that necessary to effectively manage actual risks. We decided to reassess petrol handling to make the regime more practical and compliance simpler. The Authority's decision will cut compliance costs for many farmers."

Mr Forlong emphasised farmers still have to be trained in the health and safety aspects of handling petrol, including steps to be taken in the event of a spill or other emergency.

More information on the petrol reassessment is available at www.ermanz.govt.nz

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