Sharing insights on WorkSafe changes

I have written another op-ed that has been picked up by The Post, discussing this month’s announcement regarding changes to how WorkSafe will operate.

As the Health and Safety representative for around 6,500 building and construction companies, Site Safe supports the principle of concentrating on critical risks in high-risk sectors such as construction and I argue that it is essential to define "critical risk" in legislation to provide the clarity that the industry seeks, anchoring guidance and codes of practice.

While the policy intent is sound, I also emphasise the necessity for industry involvement to ensure these changes are successful in practice; the reality is that making this shift will require a strong sector-specific focus and that’s always harder to embed than it is to announce.

In addition, I highlight that, for the reforms to be beneficial, WorkSafe needs to be trusted, capable, and grounded in the realities of the regulated environment. With a balanced operating model, WorkSafe can become an effective regulator, holding poor practices accountable while supporting those striving to do the right thing.

While established controls exist for most high-risk work activities, pursuing greater clarity through approved codes of practice (ACoP) is beneficial. In this, Site Safe NZ can play a pivotal role in engaging industry participation in developing effective guidance and ACoP.

I encourage all Site Safe members to read the full op-ed and engage with the ongoing discussions around these important changes. Together, we can lead the way in managing critical risks effectively and ensuring a safer work environment for everyone involved.