Getting Health & Safety right on building sites

 

 

Health and safety is a matter of real importance for anyone who works on the tools. Compared to other countries like Australia, our accident rates on worksites remain among the worst.

Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden is looking at wide ranging reforms to address this. The first announcement has been focused on making our health and safety system simpler and more in line with actual risks. More announcements will follow over the next few months.

Site Safe, who represent more than 6,000 businesses in the building sector, welcomes the review. It agrees a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work, and low-risk businesses shouldn’t be caught up in red tape. However, Site Safe is concerned that too much focus on cost reduction can create additional risk for those on the tools, saying it’s more about on-site practices.

Site Safe says the idea that our current approach is rife with inefficiency doesn’t match what’s being seen on the ground. According to Chief Executive, Brett Murray, “Most businesses aren’t struggling with overregulation. They’re struggling with clarity, capability, and confidence. That’s where the real work lies. We must not mistake streamlining for simplification. Especially in industries like construction, the consequences of cutting corners can be catastrophic.”

One of the key reforms proposed is a renewed emphasis on Approved Codes of Practice (ACoPs) – tools that help businesses interpret their obligations under the Health and Safety at Work Act. Done well, ACoPs offer much-needed clarity. Overseas, they’re often referred to as ‘safe havens’ – benchmarks that give organisations assurance that their practices meet acceptable standards.

The challenge is that the process for developing or updating an ACoP is time-consuming, complex, and requires a lot of consultation with industry to ensure it reflects the reality on the job. 

Site Safe is calling for building and construction industry associations to partner in co-developing a code of practice that’s high quality and fit for purpose, along with practical guidance and tools that reflect the realities of New Zealand worksites. It also wants Government and industry support to boost education for businesses. 

Says Murray: “Many construction businesses are already doing the right thing - but they’re time-poor, resource-stretched, and navigating a complex regulatory environment. Our role is to make it easier for them to succeed in keeping their people safe.”

Further announcements on workplace health and safety legislation are expected later this year.