In May 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency of New Zealand proposed to reduce lead levels permitted in paints by amending the following group standards: Surface Coating and Colorants; Aerosols; Corrosion Inhibitors; and Graphic Materials. The proposals have now been adopted and include the following changes, most coming into effect March 1, 2025: lead impurities in all paints covered by the Surface Coatings and Colorants Group Standards and Aerosols Group Standards must not exceed 90 ppm. anti-rust paints using the Corrosion Inhibitors Group Standards now must also meet the 90 ppm lead impurity limits importers and manufacturers must have test results (or other evidence) showing compliance with the lead limits. paint used on toys and cots must meet the EN 71-3:2019+A1:2021 standard, and any paint that does not meet these requirements must include on the label the precautionary statement «Not suitable for use on children’s toys or cots». all art materials marketed to children are only covered by the Graphic Materials Group Standard art materials using the Graphic Materials Group Standard must meet the lower element migration levels in the EN 71-3:2019+A1:2021 standard. leachable element notification requirement from the Graphic Materials Group Standard is no longer necessary (effective September 19, 2024). Key dates March 1, 2025: No longer import or manufacture products or substances that do not meet the amended group standards. Those already in the country can still being sold or used. September 1, 2025: Any non-compliant stock must be disposed.. General information regarding the EPA’s proposals is available here: https://www.epa.govt.nz/public-consultations/decided/lead-in-paints/
New Zealand – Cutting Lead Levels in Paints: Proposed Amendments to Group Standards.
