As an importer, it is essential to understand Australia’s product emissions standards. The regulations surrounding non-road spark-ignition engines and equipment are not only important in ensuring the products sold meet specific emission limits, but also in reducing harmful pollutants being released into the atmosphere.
Product Emissions Standards
Product Emissions describes emissions from certain products that are a significant source of air pollution. The standards set in Australia regulate the import, supply, and manufacture of certain non-road spark-ignition engines and equipment, including outdoor power equipment such as lawnmowers, generators, and other motors. These regulations ultimately set emissions standards, stopping high-emitting and air-polluting products from entering Australia.
The product emission standards specifically target these key categories of products:
- New spark-ignition engines with a maximum power of 19 kilowatts, or 25.5 horse-power
- New spark-ignition engines used in marine vessels.
- Equipment containing Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS) and Synthetic Greenhouse Gases (SGGs)
Why Does It Matter
Reduced Air Pollution
Product emission standards directly reduce the amount of harmful pollutants being released by certain products, particularly in urban areas. Controlling product emissions improves the overall air quality, reducing the health problems associated with air pollution.
Environmental Protection
Emissions such as noxious gases, commonly emitted by engines, can be extremely toxic to the environment and ecosystem. By enforcing emission standards, emissions can be better controlled, minimising the amount of harmful pollutants in the environment.
Responsibility
Product emission standards ensure compliance and responsibility from importers and retailers. With hefty penalties for non-compliant products, this framework reinforces proper regulations and encourages adherence.
International Standards
Australia’s product emission standards have been implemented to align with those of other countries, as well as the United Nations. This harmonisation among countries ensures consistency, facilitates trade, and recognises major international certifications.
What To Consider as An Importer
As an importer, there are three main obligations that you have to fulfil. This includes:
Certification
Emissions-controlled products must be certified as meeting the emission standards. To achieve certification, engines have to be tested and must meet the required emission limits. The engine can also have certification from one of the recognised foreign standards.
Standards issued by the following regulatory authorities are recognised in Australia:
- United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- California Air Resources Board
- A member state of the European Union
- Environment and Climate Change Canada.
Labelling
Emissions-controlled products must have an emissions label fixed to the engine by the manufacturer. The emissions label provides important information about the engine family. It also lists the power category, the model year and the date of manufacture. Most importantly, the label shows what standard the product meets. This is by including the certification number.
Both importers and retailers have to ensure that the products are labelled in accordance with the regulations before importing and selling.
Record keeping
Importers and suppliers are required to keep records relating to the product. This includes records relating to:
- The make, model, and number of products
- The details of the entity that supplied the products
- The certification details
- Any conditions that are associated with the product
There are several methods to keep records. These include, but are not limited to:
- Handwritten Records: Including handwritten notes, identifying the required information
- Spreadsheets: Digital or electronic records
- Digital portal: Access to the required information from the distributor database or portal
Your Trusted Custom Broker and Freight Forwarder
Bullocks Freightmasters is Perth’s trusted customs broker and freight forwarder with over 38 years of experience. With the expertise and knowledge, our team can advise you in all areas of international freight logistics, customs requirements, and product emission standards. Whether you’re looking for a reliable freight forwarder or customs agents, Bullocks Freightmasters are here to make your import and export process as smooth as possible. Contact us today to find out more about our services.
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