Statutory duties under the Dangerous Goods Regulation 1978 (NSW) requiring 'all practicable steps' or 'all practicable precautions' are not absolute obligations; they require proof that the occupier knew or ought to have known of the relevant risk. Regulation 19(g), which prescribes the end but not the means, does not create a private cause of action. Compliance with Material Safety Data Sheets and industry practice is powerful, though not decisive, evidence against a finding of negligence. Where property is sold shortly after a loss event, the actual sale price is the best evidence of value absent evidence of special circumstances.
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