- Introduction
GS1 NZ on occasions will be asked to verify product data, photograph or product barcode that is associated with a classified hazardous substance.
These instructions apply to any full sample of a Hazardous Substance required to be sent to GS1 NZ
GS1 follows the guidance provide by the Government via the Hazardous Substances ToolBox, https://hazardoussubstances.govt.nz/
2. Options for sending a Hazardous Substance to GS1 NZ
A Hazardous Substance is any material classed in any of the following classes
- explosives
- flammable gases
- flammable liquids
- flammable solids
- oxidising substances
- substances toxic to people
- corrosive substances
- substances toxic to the environment.
BEFORE SENDING ANY HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE PLEASE CALL 0800 10 23 56 or EMAIL verify@gs1nz.org TO DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENTS
One of 2 options will be discussed with the member/customer and agreed
- Sending a full container holding the Hazardous Substance.
- Product can only be sent to Auckland GS1 offices
- Customer is advised to supply a Product Safety Data Sheet (SDS) electronically ahead of or with the delivery, the SDS must be no older than 5 years from creation
- Only certain hazardous substances can be received by GS1 as per the list below
- Or send an empty clean or unused packaging sample ie bottle with label and screw cap, note this will prevent data verification for weights or photography if the container is clear
- Either Wellington or Auckland offices can complete this order
- No Product Safety Data Sheet required
3. What can GS1 NZ receive and cannot receive at this point.
GS1 Auckland will only receive the following Hazardous Substances
- Aerosols
- Flammable Liquids
- Corrosives
Hazardous Substances that will NOT be received include,
- Explosives
- Toxic Substances
- Compressed Gas
- Flammable Solids
- Oxidising Substances
- Note only empty packaging will be accepted of these substances
We anticipate the vast majority of requirements will in GS1 members will be present in the aerosols, flammable liquids and corrosives categories. But GS1 will continue to review demand on an ongoing basis.
Storage of Hazardous Substances
GS1 NZ has pre-determined specific storage cabinets area’s dependent on their hazardous declarations compliant to the appropriate standard such as AS 1940 for flammable liquids.
As a result, current demand to handle hazardous substances does not warrant the establishment of approved storage facilities in the Wellington office at this point. This will be reviewed on an ongoing basis.
Aerosols: common hazardous aerosols, include a variety of everyday products.
- Contain flammable propellants like hydrocarbons (butane, propane) and can pose fire and explosion risks.
- Substances within the aerosol can, such as paints, solvents, cleaners, and pesticides, may also be hazardous due to their chemical properties (flammability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity). Examples include spray paint, hairspray, deodorants, oven cleaner, insect spray, and even some cooking sprays
Flammable Liquids, some common examples:
- Fuels: Gasoline, diesel, kerosene, aviation fuel, and heating oil.
- Solvents: Acetone, ethanol, benzene, and various paint thinners.
- Adhesives, Paints, and Varnishes: Many of these products contain flammable solvents.
- Other: Perfumes, essential oils, and certain pesticides with flammable solvents are also included.
Corrosives, some common examples
- Drain cleaners: Often contain strong acids or bases to dissolve clogs.
- Toilet bowl cleaners: Typically contain corrosive acids or bases to remove stains and bacteria.
- Oven cleaners: Often contain strong bases like sodium hydroxide.
- Auto batteries: Contain corrosive battery acid (sulfuric acid).
- Bleach: A corrosive substance due to its chlorine content.
- Certain sanitizers: Some sanitizers, particularly those containing chlorine or other strong chemicals, can be corrosive.
Disposal of Hazardous Substances
- All Hazardous Substances are to be returned or pickup by the GS1 member
- Or disposed of by GS1 NZ.
4. Emergency Planning
- GS1 will maintain at all times an appropriate (to the amount of material held) spill kit
- Staff will be training in the use of the spill kit on a regular basis
- An inventory of hazardous substances will be retained
5. What to look for on pack to identify a Hazardous Substance.
Manufactures are required to label product with any of the following symbols to identify a hazardous substance.
GS1 NZ will accept the following categories below, GHS categories 7, 8 and 9 needs a discussion with GS1 NZ before receipt as these warnings are usually associated with any of the preceding categories of hazardous substance.
Version 1.0
Last Updated 11 August 2025