As part of WorkSafe’s endeavours to support consistency across the hazardous substances compliance regime they have started to publish ‘regulatory clarifications’ on their website. These are “Short technical guidance that provides information and clarification on good practice for meeting regulatory requirements”.
This piece is written by Janet Connochie our Senior Hazardous Substances Consultant, Compliance Certifier and Director.
- The most recent clarification relates to separation distances for transportable containers – class 6 & 8 . There is a gap in the regulations when it comes to determining the separation distances for toxic and corrosive substances.
- Packages – covered by Part 13
- Stationary container systems – covered by Part 17
- Transportable containers (portable tanks and IBCs) – are not included in either part.
So while technically speaking at the moment a separation from protected or public places is not required for transportable containers under Parts 13 or 17, there are general duties under HSWA and regulation 3.2 to manage the risks associated with your hazardous substances.
WorkSafe’s recommendation is that separation from protected and public places for transportable containers is managed in line with AS/NZS 4452: 1997 and AS 3780–2008 (2nd Edition) (R2009).
So for IBCs & portable tanks this would be the same provision as for stationary containers.
Click below on the image below for the link to the WorkSafe Regulatory Clarifications page or feel free to contact our team to discuss.
