Strict labelling requirements following LPG cabinet heater review
The Ministry of Economic Development today announced the measures it will be introducing to promote the safe use of LPG cabinet heaters, following a review into LPG cabinet heater use in New Zealand.
The review commissioned by the Ministry of Economic Development and undertaken by the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research, concluded that there are safety and health-related costs associated with LPG cabinet heater use, as well as significant economic and societal benefits associated with the safe use of these appliances, particularly as a secondary heating option.
The review confirmed there are health-related outcomes arising from the use of LPG cabinet heaters for children with asthma, and for that reason they are not recommended for use in homes with children with respiratory conditions. The report did not recommend banning LPG cabinet heater use in New Zealand.
“The review sets out a number of options for managing the risks associated with LPG cabinet heater use,” said Mark Wogan from the Ministry of Economic Development’s Energy Safety Group.
“After considering the report, the Ministry of Economic Development is looking at ways to build on the safety information already provided by the government and voluntarily by the industry, so as to strengthen the provision of information to consumers and to assist consumers to better understand the safety information that is available.”
“With up to a fifth of New Zealand homes having access to an LPG cabinet heater, the aim is to provide consumers with clear information so they can use LPG cabinet heaters safely, and avoid potential adverse health effects.”
The following measures are being implemented by the Ministry’s Energy Safety Group:
Requiring, through regulation, that specific approval be sought for an appliance before it can be sold in New Zealand;
mandating the provision of safety and health labelling on all LPG cabinet heaters, as a condition of their approval for sale in New Zealand;
working with the Ministry of Health to develop mandatory health messages;
working with the LPG Association and industry to develop mandatory safety messages;
strengthening the provision of safety and health information through brochures and websites and through a wide range of organisations.
Energy Safety is currently working with industry and key parties so that the new measures can be implemented before next winter.
The review report is available on the Energy Safety website at www.energysafety.govt.nz/cabinet-heater-review. Cabinet heater safety messages are available www.energysafety.govt.nz/cabinet-heater-safety.