Understanding HAZCHEM Signs in New Zealand & Australia
🧯 What Are HAZCHEM Signs?
HAZCHEM signs are designed to warn emergency responders and workers of hazardous substances stored, handled, or transported on site.
They use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols that convey critical safety information at a glance — including the type of chemical, how to extinguish fires, and required emergency actions.
In New Zealand and Australia, these signs are required under the Hazardous Substances (Hazardous Property Controls) Regulations 2017 and must comply with AS/NZS 1319:1994 – Safety Signs for the Occupational Environment.
⚙️ How to Read a HAZCHEM Code
Each HAZCHEM panel is divided into three main sections:
| Section | Example | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency Action Code (EAC) | 3YE | Type of chemical, firefighting method, PPE requirements |
| UN Number | 1202 | Identifies the specific substance (e.g. diesel fuel) |
| Substance Name | Diesel Fuel | The proper shipping name of the substance |
The Emergency Action Code (e.g. 3YE) is the most critical.
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First number → Type of firefighting medium (foam, fog, dry agent)
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Letter → Personal protection and spill control instructions
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Final letter (E) → Evacuation required
🧪 Common Examples of HAZCHEM Codes
| HAZCHEM Code | Substance | Typical Use Case | Recommended Sign |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3YE | Aviation Fuel (Turbine Engine) | Airfields / Aviation depots | HAZCHEM 3YE 1863 Aviation Fuel Sign |
| 2WE | Diesel Fuel | Transport depots / Machinery sheds | Diesel Hazchem Sign |
| 2XE | Methyl Bromide | Fumigation areas / Ports | Methyl Bromide Hazchem Sign |
| 2YE | Ethanol UN 1170 | Fuel storage / Biofuel plants | Ethanol Hazchem Sign |
(These internal links boost topical authority and help users navigate between related signs.)
📋 Compliance Requirements for NZ & Australia
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NZ: WorkSafe NZ and EPA NZ require clear hazardous-substance identification where dangerous goods are stored or transported.
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AU: Governed by Dangerous Goods (Road and Rail Transport) Regulations 2018 and state-based EPA guidance.
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Standard: All signage should meet AS/NZS 1319:1994 for legibility, colour coding, and layout.
Failure to display compliant signage can result in fines and enforcement under both HSNO (NZ) and DG Transport (AU) regulations.
🧱 Recommended Sizes and Materials
| Viewing Distance | Recommended Size | Mounting Option |
|---|---|---|
| ≤ 5 m | 300 × 225 mm | Adhesive vinyl label |
| Up to 10 m | 450 × 337 mm | PVC panel |
| Up to 15 m | 600 × 450 mm | ACM or Corflute |
| Up to 30 m | 1200 × 800 mm | ACM panel (ideal for site entrances) |
All signs supplied by Hazard Signs NZ are laminated, weatherproof, and printed using long-term outdoor-grade inks for durability in tough conditions.
🚨 Why Correct HAZCHEM Signage Matters
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Enables emergency services to act quickly and safely.
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Helps prevent chemical spills or misidentification.
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Reduces liability for site owners and contractors.
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Demonstrates compliance with both NZ and Australian standards.
🧭 Related Reading
⚖️ External References
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WorkSafe NZ – Hazardous Substances Management
👉 WorkSafe NZ – Hazardous substances -
EPA NZ – HSNO Act guidance
👉 EPA NZ – Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act -
United Nations GHS
👉 UN – Globally Harmonized System (GHS)
💬 Note
When dealing with dangerous goods, the right signage isn’t just compliance — it’s protection.
At Hazard Signs NZ, every HAZCHEM sign is printed to order, laminated, and compliant with both WorkSafe NZ and AS/NZS 1319:1994 standards.
If you’re unsure which code applies to your site, our team can help — contact us here or call +64 3 218 8350.
