Looking for Input on Hazardous Substances Infringement Scheme – Seeking Your Feedback
Introduction:
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and the Ministry for the Environment are seeking public input on a proposed infringement scheme for hazardous substances. This scheme, which falls under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 (HSNO Act), aims to give enforcement officers more tools to address lower-level offending related to hazardous substances. Currently, enforcement under the HSNO Act is limited to warning letters, compliance orders, or prosecution. The proposed fines under the scheme range from $200 to $3,000, depending on the nature of the offense. This consultation also includes the sale of workplace-only chemicals. The deadline for submissions is 28 August 2023.
Full Article: Looking for Input on Hazardous Substances Infringement Scheme – Seeking Your Feedback
The Environmental Protection Authority and Ministry for the Environment Seek Public Input on Proposed Infringement Scheme for Hazardous Substances
A proposed infringement scheme for hazardous substances is currently being consulted on by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and Ministry for the Environment. The scheme, which falls under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 (HSNO Act), aims to provide enforcement officers with additional tools to address lower-level offending.
The Scope of the Scheme
The scheme primarily focuses on EPA Notices and does not involve WorkSafe or the HSW Hazardous Substances Regulations. One notable notice is the EPA Hazardous Property Controls Notice 2017, which covers all chemical-related activities outside of the workplace. This includes the use of LPG in homes, warehouses, barbecues, and patio/indoor heaters that rely on a cylinder. The scheme also encompasses environmentally toxic substances within and outside of workplaces.
Furthermore, the consultation includes the sale of ‘workplace-only’ chemicals, aiming to ensure the safe handling and distribution of such substances.
Enhancing Enforcement
Under the current enforcement framework of the HSNO Act, enforcement officers have limited options, including issuing warning letters, compliance orders, or pursuing prosecution. The proposed infringement scheme would provide more flexibility in dealing with lower-level non-compliance cases.
The fines prescribed in the proposal range from $200 to $3,000, depending on the severity of the offense. For more serious offenses, prosecution will continue to be pursued as appropriate.
This marks the third attempt by the EPA to implement an infringement fee system for instances of non-compliance.
It is important to note that this scheme supplements existing infringement regimes for hazardous substances, such as the Health and Safety at Work (Infringement Offences and Fees) Regulations 2016.
Public Input and Submissions
The industry association Responsible Care New Zealand (RCNZ) is seeking input from the industry in formulating a collective response to the proposed scheme. Stakeholders are encouraged to make submissions and provide RCNZ with a copy. The input can address the proposed infringement scheme, as well as the proposed offenses and associated fines. General feedback on the matter is also welcomed.
Visit the EPA website to read the consultation document and make a submission. The submission deadline is 5:00pm on August 28, 2023.
Summary: Looking for Input on Hazardous Substances Infringement Scheme – Seeking Your Feedback
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and Ministry for the Environment are seeking input on a proposed infringement scheme for hazardous substances. This scheme, which falls under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996, aims to provide enforcement officers with more tools to address lower-level offenses. The proposed fines range from $200 to $3,000, depending on the nature of the offense, while more serious offenses will still be subject to prosecution. Industry association Responsible Care New Zealand (RCNZ) is encouraging stakeholders to make submissions and share their opinions on the proposed scheme before the deadline of August 28, 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Feedback sought on hazardous substances infringement scheme – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the purpose of the hazardous substances infringement scheme?
The hazardous substances infringement scheme aims to regulate and control the use, storage, transportation, disposal, and sale of hazardous substances to ensure public safety and minimize environmental harm. This scheme provides a framework for enforcing penalties and rectifying offenses related to hazardous substances.
2. Who is responsible for implementing the hazardous substances infringement scheme?
The hazardous substances infringement scheme is implemented and overseen by the regulatory authorities responsible for hazardous substances management. These authorities are typically governmental agencies or departments working in collaboration with environmental protection agencies, health departments, and law enforcement bodies.
3. How does the hazardous substances infringement scheme work?
The scheme operates by setting out specific rules and regulations regarding the handling of hazardous substances. Individuals or organizations found to be violating these regulations may be issued an infringement notice, which serves as a warning or penalty for the offense committed. The recipient of an infringement notice has the option to either pay the specified penalty or challenge the notice through the appropriate legal procedures.
4. How can I provide feedback on the hazardous substances infringement scheme?
You can provide your valuable feedback on the hazardous substances infringement scheme by visiting the official website of the regulatory authority responsible for its implementation. Look for a dedicated section or contact details related to feedback or public consultations. Alternatively, you may also be able to provide feedback during public forums or consultation meetings organized by the authority.
5. What kind of feedback is sought for the hazardous substances infringement scheme?
The regulatory authorities are keen to gather feedback on various aspects of the hazardous substances infringement scheme, such as its effectiveness, clarity of regulations, ease of compliance, penalty structure, and any potential areas for improvement. Your feedback can help shape and enhance the scheme to better address the concerns and needs of the community.
6. How will the received feedback be used?
The feedback received regarding the hazardous substances infringement scheme will be thoroughly reviewed and analyzed by the regulatory authorities. The input provided by the public will aid in identifying any gaps or issues within the scheme and enable the authorities to refine and strengthen the regulations based on the suggestions received. This helps ensure that the scheme remains up-to-date, effective, and relevant.
7. Is it necessary to provide feedback on the hazardous substances infringement scheme?
While it is not mandatory to provide feedback on the hazardous substances infringement scheme, your valuable input can contribute to its continuous improvement and help enhance the safety and environmental protection measures associated with hazardous substances. Participating in the feedback process allows you to voice any concerns or suggestions you may have and play an active role in shaping the regulations.
8. Can I remain anonymous when providing feedback?
The policy regarding anonymity when providing feedback on the hazardous substances infringement scheme may vary depending on the regulatory authority. However, many authorities offer options to provide anonymous feedback if you prefer not to disclose your identity. It is advisable to check the specific guidelines or contact the authority to determine the available options for submitting anonymous feedback.
9. Will my feedback have an impact on the hazardous substances infringement scheme?
Yes, your feedback can have a significant impact on the hazardous substances infringement scheme. Regulatory authorities recognize the importance of public input and take feedback seriously when reviewing and refining the scheme. Your suggestions and concerns are carefully considered to ensure that the scheme aligns with the needs and expectations of the community and effectively addresses issues related to hazardous substances.
10. Can I provide feedback if I am not directly affected by the hazardous substances infringement scheme?
Absolutely! Feedback on the hazardous substances infringement scheme is not limited to those directly affected by it. The scheme’s effectiveness impacts the general public, as it contributes to public safety and environmental protection. Therefore, anyone who wishes to share their perspective or suggestions regarding the scheme is encouraged to provide feedback and contribute to the ongoing improvement efforts.
