Hazardous substances in your home
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You may not be aware, but almost every home contains some type of hazardous substance. Many everyday products we use around our homes are classed as hazardous substances and have the potential to cause harm to our family's health, as well as to the environment. Risks can be minimised if substances are stored, used and disposed of correctly.
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What is a hazardous substance?
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A hazardous substance is generally defined as any substance that is either explosive, flammable, corrosive or toxic. Common household products that may include hazardous substances are:
- Cleaning fluids - bleaching agents, oven and drain cleaners
- Solvents - mineral turpentine, methylated spirits, paint thinners
- Adhesives - especially those containing solvents
- Garden chemicals - herbicides, fungicides and insecticides
- Pool chemicals
- Dyes - textile and hair dyes
- Stored fuels - petrol, LPG, diesel and oil
- Old gas cylinders
- Car batteries and antifreeze
- Aerosols
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How can I store hazardous substances?
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- Store substances in the correct, upright position - in a dry place away from heat or flames
- Keep products in the original containers and always keep the lid on
- Store in a cool place out of reach of children and pets
- Don't store incompatible substances next to each other
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What's the safest way to handle substances?
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- Always read and follow the instructions on the container or packet
- Use up the product before you buy more
- Don't mix products
- Don't use more than recommended by the manufacturer
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How can I dispose of substances safely?
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- Check the original container for instructions on how to dispose of the substance safely
- Re-use or recycle when possible
- Always dispose of unwanted household hazardous substances at the Hamilton Refuse Transfer Station and Recycling Centre on Lincoln Street: phone 0800 10 10 10 to discuss what can be taken and recycled
- Don't pour unwanted chemicals down the sink, stormwater drain or onto the ground
- Don't put hazardous substances out with domestic rubbish
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What to remember
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- Everyday products we use around the home can be classed as hazardous substances
- Correct storage, use and disposal of these substances will minimise the risk to your family's health and to the environment
- Household hazardous substances can be taken to the Refuse Transfer Station and Recycling Centre on Lincoln Street
- Waste oil and car batteries can be recycled free of charge at the Refuse Transfer Station
- Some hobbies and occupations that involve the storage and use of large volumes or quantities of hazardous substances may require an Approved Handler and Location Test Certificates from a HSNO officer. Certificates are required for storage of more than 50 litres of petrol (not including what is in your car), storage of more than 100kg of LPG - this may be in one or more bottles you have at home
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Useful contacts and
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- If you are unsure how to dispose of your household hazardous substances, contact the Environmental Health Unit at Council on 07 838 6699
- If large quantities of agrichemicals are found on your property, contact Environmental Waikato on 0800 800 401 to discuss safe removal options, or visit www.ew.govt.nz
- For disposal of hazardous substances from a commercial site, contact a specialist hazardous waste disposal company in the Yellow Pages, visit www.yellow.co.nz for further details
- Asbestos can't be taken to the Refuse Transfer Station. Look in the yellow pages under 'Asbestos' for an approved operator who can safely dispose the asbestos for you
- For further information on hazardous substances and the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act, visit www.ermanz.govt.nz
- Opening hours for the Refuse Transfer Station and Recycling Centre are:
Monday to Saturday: 7.30am - 4.30pm
Sunday and Public Holidays: 12 noon - 5pm
Closed: New Year's Day, Good Friday and Christmas Day
Contact 0800 10 10 10 |
