Which Diesel Sign Do I Need?
Hazchem 3Z 1202 vs Hazchem 3Z 3082 vs UN 3082 — Explained
Diesel signage can be confusing that’s why we created the “Which Diesel Sign Do I Need?” resource — there are multiple codes, colours, and layouts that all look similar but serve very different purposes. If you’re not sure whether you need a Hazchem 3Z 1202 sign, a Hazchem 3Z 3082 sign, or just a UN 3082 environmental placard, this guide will make it clear.
Getting this right isn’t just good practice — it’s a compliance requirement under HSNO, NZS 5433:2020, and NZS/AS 1319:1994.
🔎 Quick Comparison Table
Sign Type | Code / Number Displayed | Purpose | Where to Use | Compliance |
---|---|---|---|---|
Hazardous 3Z 1202 Diesel Sign | Hazchem 3Z + UN 1202 | Identifies diesel as a Class 3 Flammable Liquid and instructs fire crews to use foam or water fog. | Bulk diesel tanks, road tankers, depot entrances. | HSNO, NZS 5433 (Transport of Dangerous Goods on Land), NZS/AS 1319:1994. |
HAZCHEM 3Z UN 3082 Diesel Sign | Hazchem 3Z + UN 3082 | Identifies diesel as an environmentally hazardous substance (Class 9) and provides Hazchem firefighting guidance. | Sites near waterways, environmentally sensitive areas, or where runoff containment is required. | HSNO, NZS 5433, NZS/AS 1319:1994. |
UN 3082 Environmental Placard | UN 3082 only (black/white Class 9 symbol) | Shows diesel is environmentally hazardous but does not include Hazchem info. | Tankers, tanks, or depots where only UN hazard classification is required. | NZS 5433 (Class 9 placard requirement), HSNO. |
🏭 When to Use Each Sign
Use Hazchem 3Z 1202 when you’re identifying diesel as a flammable liquid — this is the most common requirement for bulk tanks and tankers.
Use Hazchem 3Z UN 3082 when environmental protection is also a priority, such as near stormwater drains, rivers, or sensitive sites.
Use UN 3082 Placards when your main goal is to show compliance with Class 9 labelling for transport or storage.
📷 Visual Examples
✅ Compliance Notes
All three options are compliant with HSNO and NZS 5433:2020 when displayed in the correct size for viewing distance:
300 × 225 mm: up to 5 m viewing
450 × 337 mm: up to 10 m viewing
600 × 450 mm: up to 15 m viewing
800 × 600 mm: up to 20 m viewing
- 1200 × 800 mm: up to 30 m viewing (ideal for site entrances or where long-distance legibility is required)
Signs must be clean, legible, and not obstructed. Magnetic versions are ideal for vehicles and can be removed when not carrying diesel.
🛒 Ready to Order?
Or grab our Diesel Compliance Pack and tick all the boxes in one go.
For more information check out these links
WorkSafe NZ – Hazardous Substances Management
👉 WorkSafe NZ – Hazardous substancesEPA NZ – HSNO Act guidance
👉 EPA NZ – Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) ActUnited Nations GHS
👉 UN – Globally Harmonized System (GHS)- Why you need the correct Hazard sign