Petrol
Petrol is very common but also extremely dangerous. We have some tips on how to use it safely.
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Petrol is very common but also extremely dangerous. We have some tips on how to use it safely.
Petrol can easily catch fire and cause explosions, severe burns and death. People can also get sick from breathing in petrol fumes, or from drinking petrol.
For more advice call The Poisons Centre on 0800 764 766 (0800 POISON).
If a person is not breathing or is unconscious, call 111 immediately.
Fire and explosions
Illness and death
Health risks over a long time
You need to be very careful to protect yourself, others, and the environment while you are using or pouring petrol. Make sure to:
Petrol and its fumes catch fire very easily, and can cause explosions. You can reduce the risk by making sure to:
If you have more than 50 litres of petrol stored at your property, you need to get a HSNO Certificate that certifies that the petrol is being stored safely. HSNO certificates are issued by a compliance certifier. They will visit you and issue the certificate after confirming your property meets all of the legal requirements for storing more 50 litres of petrol. The compliance certifier will also send a copy of the certificate to us at the EPA for our records.
See a list of compliance certifiers on the WorkSafe website
Or, contact our team on hscompliance@govt.nz and we will help you find a compliance certifier.
Only store petrol in approved petrol containers. Approved containers have undergone a range of tests to make sure they won't leak or explode.
These symbols indicate that the contents of the container are flammable.
Products with this symbol can cause serious health issues if people are exposed to the product.
These products may:
Products with this symbol are toxic to the environment.
The St John website has information about how to treat burns.
Some general tips on handling hazardous substances in the home.
Lean how to use LPG safely.