As 2025 unfolds, New Zealand’s chemical industry is undergoing a significant regulatory shift. The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) had set 30 April 2025 as the final deadline for all importers, manufacturers, and suppliers of hazardous substances to comply with updated Safety Data Sheet (SDS), labelling, and packaging requirements. These changes align New Zealand’s rules with the seventh revised edition of the Globally Harmonised System (GHS 7), marking the end of a four-year transition period that began in 2021.
Key Regulatory Updates and Deadlines
Mandatory GHS 7 Compliance: From 30 April 2025, all hazardous substances supplied in New Zealand must have SDSs, labels, and packaging that meet the updated Hazardous Substances Notices, which reflect GHS 7 standards. There is no additional grace period for stock already in trade after this date.
Who Must Comply: The requirements apply to all importers, manufacturers, and suppliers of hazardous substances. Every hazardous substance in the supply chain must meet the new standards-non-compliance after the deadline is not permitted.
What’s Changing for SDS Requirements?
- Updated Format and Content: SDSs must follow the format and content requirements outlined in the Hazardous Substances (Safety Data Sheets) Notice 2017, as amended in 2021. This includes clear identification of hazards, updated precautionary statements, and detailed toxicological and ecological information.
- Reclassification for Certain Substances: Some substances, especially those classified as desensitised explosives or flammable gases, require reclassification to meet the new GHS 7 framework. Minor updates to precautionary statements may also be necessary for other substances.
- Alignment with International Standards: The updated regulations bring New Zealand’s SDS and packaging requirements in line with international best practices, including those for the transport of dangerous goods and child-resistant packaging.
- Alternative Compliance: Businesses may use SDSs and labels from Australia, the U.S., Canada, or the EU, provided they add New Zealand-specific details and meet local packaging standards. This flexibility helps companies operating in multiple jurisdictions.
Practical Steps for Businesses
- Review and Update SDSs: Companies must review all SDSs and ensure they are fully compliant with GHS 7. If existing SDSs only meet GHS 5, minor updates may suffice, but anything older or non-compliant must be completely revised.
- Record Keeping: Importers and manufacturers using alternative compliance routes must document their compliance strategy and specify the jurisdiction they are following.
- No More Transitional Arrangements: After 30 April 2025, transitional arrangements end. All hazardous substances, including those already in the supply chain, must meet the new requirements.
The adoption of GHS 7 in New Zealand is a major step forward in harmonizing chemical hazard communication with global standards. Businesses must act now to review, update, and document their SDSs, labels, and packaging to ensure full compliance by the April 2025 deadline. This regulatory update not only enhances workplace safety but also streamlines international trade and compliance for New Zealand’s chemical sector.
How SDS Manager Can Help
Navigating these complex and dynamic SDS requirements demands robust SDS management solutions. SDS Manager offers a comprehensive platform designed to keep your chemical safety program aligned with the latest GHS standards and NZ laws.
Key Features That Help You Stay Compliant:
- Extensive safety data sheet Database & Import Tools: Access more than 13 million SDSs and easily import your chemical inventory to build a complete, up-to-date safety data sheet library.
- Automated safety data sheet Updates: Receive timely notifications for safety data sheet revisions and updates, ensuring your data reflects the latest hazard information.
- One-Click Access to Safety Information: Instantly access hazard details, PPE icons, first aid instructions, and spill precautions. Generate Safety Information Summaries for employee guidance.
- Secondary Container Label Generation: Create compliant labels in multiple sizes featuring QR codes, hazard codes, and PPE icons to meet labeling requirements.
- QR Code Integration & Mobile Access: Generate QR codes and posters for instant safety data sheet access on mobile devices, improving hazard communication and worker safety.
- Compliance Reporting: Generate detailed reports to stay audit-ready and demonstrate regulatory compliance effortlessly.
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