WorkSafe is consulting on a proposal to restrict access to areas where pesticides have been used for a period of time it is calling a ‘restricted entry interval’
A restricted entry interval (REI) is the period of time, after a pesticide has been applied to an area, during which residues of the pesticide are likely to be present and could affect the health of workers re-entering the area.
WorkSafe is proposing updated restricted entry intervals to protect workers.
A quick guide has been developed to help persons conducting a business or undertaking manage restricted entry intervals.
WorkSafe says public submissions will help determine the restricted entry intervals and ensure the proposed quick guide is fit for purpose.
The deadline for submissions for both is 5pm on 20 September 2024.
Proposed restricted entry intervals for pesticides
WorkSafe consulted in 2022 on new restricted entry intervals for substances that previously had restricted entry intervals set under Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 (HSNO).
Based on the submissions received, WorkSafe further refined the proposed restricted entry intervals and added additional substances. It is seeking feedback on these updated restricted entry intervals.
Once the new REIs have been set they will apply immediately.
WorkSafe will notify all submitters and manufacturers/suppliers/importers who have registered products with ACVM that match any of these HSNO approved substances that the REIs have been set. WorkSafe will also notify interested parties through their hazardous substances newsletter.
WorkSafe is working with the EPA on requiring the REI to be on the label. Manufacturers/suppliers/importers should update their labels the next time labels are updated after the REIs are set.
WorkSafe will consider developing an enforcement policy taking into consideration the time it will take for labels to be updated.
Restricted entry interval quick guide
The restricted entry intervals for pesticides quick guide aims to describe, in plain language, what a PCBU must do to manage an area that is subject to a restricted entry interval by:
- defining what a restricted entry interval is
- providing information about what personal protective equipment is required for people carrying out an activity in an area with an active restricted entry interval
- providing examples of appropriate personal protective equipment
- providing information about what signage is required for an indoor area with an active restricted entry interval.
The quick guide will help PCBUs who have management or control of an area where a pesticide with a restricted entry interval has been applied, comply with the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017.
- REI consultation document
- REI feedback form
- Quick guide consultation document
- Quick guide feedback form
