Support & resources

Certified Handler Practical Evidence

Ensuring compliance with New Zealand's hazardous substances regulations is crucial for anyone handling agrichemicals or other hazardous substances. Adroit Solutions is here to simplify the process of submitting your Certified Handler practical evidence, helping you meet the requirements set by WorkSafe NZ and the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA). This page provides comprehensive guidance, forms, and step-by-step instructions to ensure your evidence is correct, complete, and compliant, supporting your journey towards a valid Certified Handler certificate.

Our aim is to make the evidence submission process as straightforward as possible, allowing you to focus on safe and responsible hazardous substance management. Whether you are a farmer, grower, rural contractor, or a retail merchant, understanding and providing the right practical evidence is a key step in demonstrating your competence and securing your certification.

What is Certified Handler Practical Evidence?

Practical evidence for a Certified Handler certificate demonstrates your real-world ability to safely manage hazardous substances in accordance with the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act (HSNO Act) and associated regulations. It's not just about theoretical knowledge; it's about proving you can apply that knowledge in your day-to-day operations. This evidence typically includes documentation, photographs, and descriptions of your procedures related to the storage, handling, and application of hazardous substances.

WorkSafe NZ mandates that individuals who manage certain highly hazardous substances must hold a Certified Handler certificate. The practical evidence component ensures that your practices align with the stringent safety standards required to protect yourself, your team, the public, and the environment.

Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting Your Evidence

Adroit Solutions has streamlined the evidence submission process into clear, manageable steps. Follow this guide to ensure you provide all necessary information for a successful assessment.

#### 1. Understand the Requirements for Your Specific Certificate

Before you begin, confirm the specific evidence requirements for your Certified Handler certificate. These can vary slightly depending on the type of hazardous substances you handle and your operational context. Adroit Solutions provides tailored guidance within our courses to help you identify exactly what is needed.

#### 2. Complete the Official Adroit Solutions Evidence Form

Our user-friendly evidence forms are designed to capture all the necessary details efficiently. You will need to provide information such as:

  • Your personal details and contact information.
  • Details of the hazardous substances you handle, including their HSNO classes.
  • A description of your workplace and the context in which you manage these substances.
  • Confirmation of your understanding and implementation of safety procedures.

Access the main practical evidence portal to download the latest forms and begin your submission.

#### 3. Gather Supporting Photographs

Photographic evidence is a critical component of your submission. These images provide visual confirmation of your adherence to safety protocols. Ensure your photographs clearly show:

  • Secure Storage Facilities: Images of your hazardous substance storage areas, demonstrating appropriate signage, containment, ventilation, and segregation from incompatible substances. This includes chemical sheds, cabinets, or designated storage zones.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Photos of you or your team correctly wearing the required PPE for handling specific hazardous substances, such as gloves, respirators, eye protection, and protective clothing.
  • Application Equipment: If applicable, photographs of your application equipment (e.g., sprayers, spreaders) in good working order, with clear labelling and safety features visible.
  • Safety Data Sheets (SDS): Evidence that SDS are readily accessible for all hazardous substances on site.

Ensure photographs are clear, well-lit, and accurately represent your practices. Avoid blurry or indistinct images.

#### 4. Verify Chemical Storage and Application Procedures

Beyond photographs, you must describe your procedures for managing hazardous substances. This includes:

  • Inventory Management: How you maintain an up-to-date inventory of hazardous substances.
  • Emergency Procedures: Your plan for responding to spills, leaks, or other incidents, including access to emergency equipment and first aid.
  • Disposal Methods: How you safely dispose of hazardous waste and empty containers.
  • Application Records: If you apply agrichemicals, details of your spray diary or application records, demonstrating compliance with label instructions and environmental considerations.

Your descriptions should be concise yet comprehensive, reflecting a thorough understanding of your responsibilities under the HSNO Act.

What Happens After Submission?

Once you submit your practical evidence through the Adroit Solutions portal, our qualified assessors will review it against the regulatory requirements. If any information needs clarification or revision, we will contact you directly to guide you through the necessary adjustments. Our goal is to support you in achieving your Certified Handler certificate efficiently.

Need Assistance?

If you have any questions about the practical evidence requirements or need assistance with your submission, please do not hesitate to contact the Adroit Solutions team. We are here to provide expert guidance and ensure your compliance journey is smooth and successful.

Link to the main practical evidence portal to get started today.