Between 600–900 New Zealanders are estimated to die from work-related illness every year, many from chronic illness arising from the unnecessary exposure to hazardous chemicals. This course is designed to train workers to identify the health and safety risks of the chemicals at work and correctly apply controls designed to minimise their exposure to these risks. The course ensures PCBU meet the requirements of Regulation 4.5 of the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017.

After the successful completion of this course, learners will be able to demonstrate knowledge of:

• Their obligations under the current legislation.
• The health and safety risks associated with their workplace chemicals.
• The controls required to reduce the risk of exposure.
• The safe use of equipment, including PPE, to reduce their risk of exposure.
• Their actions during chemical emergencies at work.
• An emergency involving Hazardous Substances in the workplace.

Learners will be introduced to their obligations under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and the Hazardous Substances Regulations; trained to identify the hazardous substances on their workplace and interpret workplace SDS or equivalent documentation; and check and implement the controls to minimise their risks of exposure. Learners will drill actions to take during chemical emergencies according to their workplace procedures.

Section 4.5 of the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017 require all workers at risk of exposure to Hazardous Substances at work to attend this training.