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This one-day, in-person course provides the essential knowledge and practical skills required to safely handle, store, use, and dispose of hazardous substances in the workplace. Aligned with NZQA Unit Standards 31290 and 31293, and Regulation 4.5 of the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017, it supports compliance for both individuals and organisations working with hazardous chemicals.
This course is also a preparatory step for those intending to apply for Certified Handler Certification, particularly for Class 6.1A and 6.1B substances.
Unit standards are issued in partnership with an approved NZQA provider
At the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Understand legal obligations under HSWA and Hazardous Substances Regulations.
- Identify hazardous substances and interpret GHS labels and pictograms.
- Locate and apply information from Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
- Assess risks and apply appropriate control measures.
- Select and correctly use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Safely handle, store, segregate, and dispose of hazardous substances.
- Follow correct procedures for decanting and storage.
- Respond effectively to spills and uncontrolled releases, including emergency actions and reporting.
- Understand knowledge requirements for Certified Handler applications.
Unit Standards Achieved:
- NZQA 31290 – Demonstrate knowledge of hazardous substances in the workplace (Level 3, 4 credits)
- Classify hazardous substances and understand hazard identification systems.
- Explain potential adverse effects on human health and the environment.
- Understand exposure routes, monitoring, and basic treatment responses.
- Apply knowledge of safe storage, tracking requirements, handling, and disposal.
- Describe appropriate responses to uncontrolled releases.
- Understand concepts such as multiple causation, root-cause analysis, and incident reporting requirements.
- NZQA 31293 – Demonstrate knowledge of the safe management and handling of hazardous substances (Level 3, 4 credits)
- Interpret health and safety information for hazardous substances.
- Apply safe handling, storage, and disposal practices in the workplace.
- Demonstrate practical application of controls to minimise risk.
- Respond effectively to spills and uncontrolled releases.
- Understand workplace procedures relating to hazardous substances.
Certified Handler Certification:
This course provides the formal training required before applying for Certified Handler Certification. Certified Handlers are required for certain high-risk hazardous substances, including Class 6.1A and 6.1B toxic substances, where there is a higher level of risk to people and the environment.
To become a Certified Handler, individuals must:
- Complete appropriate training (such as this course).
- Demonstrate competency in handling specific hazardous substances.
- Show practical application of skills in their workplace.
- Be assessed and certified by an Approved Compliance Certifier.
Certification is issued separately and may be limited to specific substances, locations, or tasks. Ongoing competency and refresher training may be required to maintain certification.
Who should attend:
- Workers handling or using hazardous substances.
- Supervisors and team leaders.
- Health and Safety Representatives.
- Anyone requiring Certified Handler training (Class 6.1A or 6.1B).
Entry Requirements:
- Minimum of 3 months’ relevant industry experience.
- English proficiency equivalent to NCEA Level 1 or IELTS 5.5.
- A reader/writer must be provided if language requirements are not met (cannot be another student).
- Valid photo ID must be presented on the day for verification.
Upon completing this course, you will receive:
- A certificate for NZQA Unit Standards 31290 and 31293.
- Recognition of training towards Certified Handler Certification requirements.
- A course manual for future reference.
This course is designed for workers in operational roles such as cleaning, maintenance, manufacturing, logistics, and trades. It has a strong practical focus and does not cover higher-level managerial responsibilities such as procurement, inventory control, or regulatory threshold decisions.
The course can also be delivered as a private onsite course at your premises. Contact us to discuss options.
