WorkSafe Shifting Focus: What It Means for NZ Businesses
Significant changes are underway at WorkSafe New Zealand, following feedback from businesses and a ministerial review. These reforms aim to create a more supportive and proportionate health and safety system, rather than one driven by enforcement alone.
Key Updates:
- Greater Support and Practical Guidance
WorkSafe will shift focus from being primarily an enforcement agency to one that actively supports businesses with practical advice. This includes engaging early and providing consistent, sector-specific guidance. - Focus on High-Risk Sectors
WorkSafe will continue prioritising industries with the highest risk: agriculture, forestry, construction, and manufacturing. Key risks like working at height, machinery, and harmful exposures will remain central to their work. - Approved Codes of Practice (ACOPs)
Industries will be encouraged to develop their own codes of practice for ministerial approval. WorkSafe will support and guide these efforts and create ACOPs where no industry leadership exists. - Cultural Shift Away from Fear
The Minister noted a “culture of fear” around WorkSafe. The goal now is to build a culture where businesses and workers feel comfortable seeking help and advice. - Clearer Financial Transparency
WorkSafe’s activities will now be categorised under four key headings to better show where funding is being used:- Supporting workplace health and safety
- Enforcement and compliance
- Authorising and monitoring
- Energy safety
- No Additional Funding
The reforms are to be implemented within existing budgets, with a focus on using current resources more transparently and effectively. - Legislative Changes on the Horizon
A Health and Safety at Work Reform Bill will be introduced later this year to reflect these changes in law.
These updates are designed to make health and safety compliance more approachable, realistic, and industry-led- while still ensuring that enforcement remains where it’s needed. Industry Training Works will continue to monitor these changes and adjust our training and advisory services accordingly.