Step-by-Step Guide for Auckland Businesses: HSNO Training and Emergency Response for Staff

Introduction

If your Auckland business stores or uses hazardous substances, you’re required under the HSNO (Hazardous Substances and New Organisms) regulations to ensure staff are properly trained. Training must cover safe handling procedures and emergency response actions so workers know how to manage spills, leaks, fires, or exposures safely.

This isn’t just compliance — it’s about protecting lives, reducing risks, and keeping your workplace safe. Here’s a step-by-step process to ensure your staff receive the right HSNO training, along with the services Auditsure can provide to support you.

Step 1: Identify HSNO Products on Site

Before training, you need to know exactly which hazardous substances your staff may come into contact with. This includes chemicals, fuels, paints, cleaning agents, and gases.

👉 How Auditsure helps: We carry out a hazardous substances audit to identify all products on site and ensure nothing is missed.

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Step 2: Review Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

Each product must have a current Safety Data Sheet (SDS). These documents outline safe handling, storage, and emergency response instructions. Training should be tailored to these SDS details.

👉 How Auditsure helps: We manage your SDS library, check expiry dates, and integrate SDS information into staff training.

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Step 3: Deliver Safe Handling Training

Workers must be trained on how to handle hazardous substances safely. This includes:

• Correct use of PPE (gloves, masks, goggles)

• Safe storage and segregation

• Minimising spills and exposure risks

• Proper labelling and signage

👉 How Auditsure helps: We run toolbox talks and induction sessions to make training practical and relevant to your workplace.

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Step 4: Provide Emergency Response Training

Staff must also be prepared for emergencies involving hazardous substances. Training should cover:

• Spill response procedures

• Fire safety and evacuation plans

• First aid actions for chemical exposure

• Reporting incidents and near misses

👉 How Auditsure helps: We design and deliver emergency response training workshops, including spill kit demonstrations and evacuation drills.

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Step 5: Keep Training Accessible and Up-to-Date

Training isn’t a one-off event. HSNO regulations require that staff training records are kept current and accessible. Refreshers should be provided:

• Annually

• When new substances are introduced

• When roles or responsibilities change

👉 How Auditsure helps: We provide ongoing compliance reviews and digital training records, so you’re always audit-ready.

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Why Work With Auditsure?

Auditsure helps Auckland businesses stay compliant and safe with:

• ✅ Hazardous substances audits

• ✅ SDS management and integration

• ✅ Safe handling training

• ✅ Emergency response workshops

• ✅ Compliance reviews and refresher sessions

With our support, your staff gain confidence, your workplace stays safe, and your business meets all HSNO obligations.

Conclusion

Training and instruction on safe handling and emergency response is a critical part of HSNO compliance in Auckland. By following this step-by-step process and partnering with Auditsure, you can ensure your staff are prepared, your workplace is safer, and your business remains compliant with New Zealand law.

📞 Contact Auditsure today to book your HSNO training and emergency response program.