Proper management of hazardous substances throughout their lifecycle is necessary to avoid adverse health effects from either direct exposure or environmental contamination.

For more information about hazardous substances and the HSNO Act see the website of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).

Reference to Vertebrate Toxic Agent application form (PDF, 110.47 KB).

The Ministry of Health has launched a health education website, which contains information pamphlets for the general public.

The relevant pamphlets regarding lead-based paint and asbestos issues are available below:

Lead

• Management of lead-based paint  (PDF, 345.47 KB)
• Lead and lead poisoning  (PDF, 1.79 MB)
• Painting using lead-based paint (PDF, 1.79 MB)
• Public health advice for operators of shooting club ranges (PDF, 181KB)
• Health advice for indoor shooters (PDF, 165KB) 

Asbestos

• All about asbestos  (PDF, 123.21 KB)
• Suspected asbestos containing materials ( PDF, 48.70 KB)
• Removing asbestos from the home  (PDF, 149.12 KB)

The Department of Labour provides best practice information and guidance to assist New Zealand businesses with health and safety in the workplace. Its occupational safety and health (OSH) website publishes and updates systematic guidelines and information on lead-based paint and asbestos which are available at:

• www.osh.govt.nz

Other helpful websites include:

• The NZ Ministry for the Environment

Contact the Duty Health Protection Officer (Environmental Health) for any concern or enquiries over hazardous substances on (09) 623 4600.