20 February 2023

WorkSafe has granted an exemption (SEP2010) to Amcor Flexibles (New Zealand) Limited from compliance with regulation 11.36(2) of the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017 in relation to the printing hall and laminating hall at their facility located at 74 Branston Street, Hornby, Christchurch.

The exemption is granted by WorkSafe in accordance with section 220 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 on the basis that WorkSafe is satisfied that -

• the extent of the exemption is not broader than is reasonably necessary to address the matters that gave rise to the proposed exemption; and
• the exemption is not inconsistent with the purpose of the Act.

WorkSafe also note that:

• the risks associated with the non-compliance of the non-fire rated ceiling is mitigated by the automatic sprinkler system, carbon dioxide suppression system, and vapour detectors to flammable vapours; and
• the risk associated with the non-compliance of the construction requirements of a type 2 and type 1 workroom is reduced as the quantity of flammable substances in the printing hall and laminating hall is limited to that which is essential for the printing presses and laminator; and
• it is not reasonably practicable to comply with the workroom requirements of the ceiling under regulation 11.36(2) as the works required to obtain compliance is disproportionate to the reduction in risk.

The exemption comes into effect 20 February 2023 and expires on 20 February 2028 unless it is replaced sooner or revoked.