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Electroplating and related processes like anodising use hazardous chemicals – particularly cyanide salts and hydrochloric acid. Safely managing these chemicals, along with the risk from working with electricity, are vital for preventing accidents and long-term health problems.

We have produced guidance about electroplating, anodising, electroforming and barrel plating.

Guidelines for the safe use of chemicals in electroplating and related industries identifies the chemical hazards associated with the various processes and how to safely manage these chemicals, including daily, weekly and annual checklists.

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Guidelines for the Safe Use of Chemicals in Electroplating (PDF 208 KB)

While this guidance has not been updated to reflect current work health and safety legislation (the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and regulations), it may still contain relevant information and practices to keep workers and others healthy and safe.

Please read this guidance in conjunction with all relevant industry standards that apply to you as a PCBU. This guidance will be progressively reviewed and either updated, replaced with other guidance, or revoked.

Note: Appendix 2 refers to legislation, standards and guidance that in some cases have been replaced or updated. Please consult industry standards and organisations to identify current materials.  

Compliance certification requirements

Depending on the type and quantity of chemicals held at your site, you may require one or more of the following compliance certificates:

If you are unsure about your compliance certification requirements, contact a compliance certifier for advice.

Find a compliance certifier(external link)

As a general rule, you should keep the quantities of hazardous substances stored on your site to a minimum. In this way the risks may be reduced and the need for compliance certification reduced.