Types of group standards
Group standards are approvals for a group of hazardous substances of a similar nature, type or use.
What is a group standard?
A group standard sets out conditions that enable a group of hazardous substances to be managed safely.
Most domestic and workplace chemicals (except for pesticides, timber treatment chemicals and vertebrate toxic agents) are approved under group standards.
The substances within a group standard are covered by one set of conditions, which state how they can be used and how to manage the related risks. Different types of products with different uses can be approved together under a single group standard. For example, the aerosol group standards include aerosol paints and aerosol cleaners.
Getting approval for a new substance
If a new hazardous substance being considered for approval fits the conditions of an existing group standard, it is automatically deemed an approved substance under the Hazardous Substance and New Organisms (HSNO) Act.
If the new substance does not fit the conditions of an existing group standard, an application for approval to import or manufacture that substance must be made. The application can be for:
- the substance
- a new group standard
- an amendment to a group standard to include the substance.
Make an application to get approval for a substance
Apply for a new group standard approval
Apply for an amendment to a group standard approval
Establishing a new group standard
A group standard is established by publishing a notice in the New Zealand Gazette following public notification and consultation. It is also published in relevant industry publications.