Hazardous substance leaks or spills

The use of hazardous substances is primarily governed by the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 (HSNO).

Hazardous substances are often called dangerous goods or chemicals. Under HSNO, many substances that might not seem dangerous are termed 'hazardous'. For example, in large quantities, milk may not hurt people - but a large spill of milk into a stream could harm wildlife.

Chemical storage sites are scattered around the Wellington region, usually near areas of heavy industry. Explosives are used at quarries and are stored by the military. Chlorine is used in water treatment plants and swimming pools. Ammonia, solvents, caustic soda, corrosives and toxic substances such as lead are used in industry around the region.

Hazardous substances are harmful to our health as they can be poisonous, corrosive, flammable, explosive or irritant. If they accidentally spill, hazardous substances can cause contamination and damage. Most hazardous substance containers are clearly marked with a coloured diamond.

Common household hazardous substances include:

aerosol cans (they might explode in heat eg. oven cleaners, hairspray or flyspray)
bleach and laundry sprays
gas leaking from household fittings
petrol, LPG gas, BBQ gas cylinders
meths, paint thinners, turps
garden chemicals and plant sprays.

When storing hazardous substances

keep the containers in a secure cabinet
keep the contents in their original containers
do not transfer contents into food or drink containers
store poisons and corrosive materials in strong, unbreakable containers with tight-fitting lids
store out of reach of children.

Leaks or spills

If a major hazardous substance leakage or spillage occurs, you may be evacuated from your area by Civil Defence.

If a minor, or local hazard is obvious:

move away from substance (to higher ground, upwind or across wind)
do not light your gas stove, candles or cigarettes if you smell or see gas spill
report the hazard to Police, Fire or Civil Defence
if in doubt, close windows and doors and stay indoors.

When a man-made hazard occurs:

listen to the radio for advice and information
stay away from the affected area
have an evacuation plan
have your survivial kit ready.