WorkSafe New Zealand

Leptospirosis is the most common work-related infectious disease in New Zealand. It can result in hospitalisation, long-term illness, or even death.     People usually catch leptospirosis from exposure to the urine of infected animals. The people most at risk are those who come into close contact with animals and are exposed to their urine, body fluids or flesh, especially in wet environments. We've updated our leptospirosis guidance for those working in close contact with animals and anyone visiting rural/farming areas. New online learning modules are also available, as well as a printable one-page info sheet with key points for workers. https://lnkd.in/gwcSG6Rp

This Asbestos Awareness Week we sat down with Garrett Davidson, the Operations Manager at The Floor Store Commercial, to talk about how they tackle asbestos. “We’re well aware of the dangers of asbestos and we don’t take any risks. If in doubt, we stop everything and get it tested. We’d much rather be safe than sorry. I’m lucky our Managing Director, Joe, is so supportive of health and safety. He’s made it really clear that the responsibility comes from the top down and we need to look after our men on the front lines.” As Operations Manager, Garrett runs a tight ship when it comes to health and safety. It’s his job to make sure the safety and wellbeing of his team is the priority. The processes and policies around asbestos are laid out in their asbestos management plan and clearly communicated to the team on the ground. “You have to have a clear, strict process when dealing with stuff as dangerous as this. Sometimes you get people saying you’re taking it too seriously but we’re talking about the health and safety of my team – of course I’m going to take it seriously.” This Asbestos Awareness Week, we’re making it easier for you to take asbestos seriously. Check out our updated guidance on asbestos in your workplace and our asbestos management plan example and template: https://lnkd.in/ggpPbi7K 

WorkSafe is consulting on proposed guidelines for managing psychosocial risks at work. We previously consulted on this in 2023, and feedback suggested changes were required which we have used to help refine this latest version.    Psychosocial risks at work cause harm to workers’ physical and mental health and must be managed effectively by businesses. Anyone is welcome to provide feedback. We are particularly interested in receiving feedback from small business owners.   Submissions close at 5pm on Friday 29 November 2024. https://lnkd.in/gTV4ibsf

23-year-old Jake Duncan was killed when a stuck log came loose and hurtled towards him at high speed on a Hawke’s Bay forestry block.   Our investigation found an uncommon practice known as plugging and bridging was the reason why the log turned into a deadly weapon.   This tragedy highlights the need for forestry businesses to have up-to-date, site-specific safety plans. Read more about the prosecution: https://lnkd.in/g8JW62fk

Asbestos Awareness Week reminder: if in doubt, get an expert in. If you’re unlicensed, you can only remove up to 10 square metres of non-friable asbestos (asbestos fibres bonded into another material) over a whole project or site. This rule is to keep you and your workers safe from asbestos exposure. If there’s more than 10 metres squared, or if there’s friable asbestos (flaky or powdery asbestos fibres), you’ll need to get a licensed removalist in. We know it can be costly and time-consuming, but it’s not worth risking your and your workers’ health and safety. If in doubt, get an expert in. You can see the database of licensed removalists on our website: https://lnkd.in/gkhvj5Tr

Asbestos exposure is Aotearoa’s number one workplace killer. Around 220 people die each year from preventable asbestos-related disease. The airborne fibres are so small they’re invisible to the naked eye, and can cause harm when breathed in. There are no safe levels of exposure.  The dangers are widely known, so there are no excuses for not managing asbestos safely. Learn how to protect yourself and others at https://lnkd.in/gkWRhKgP 

Check out this great new industry-led tool that shares data to help retail businesses to prevent harm on-site and on-road. We're proud to support this mahi alongside ACC New Zealand. Visit the ShopCare Charitable Trust website now to check it out and use the insights in your health and safety conversations.

Commercial and industrial storage racks are a necessity for many businesses across Aotearoa. But storage solutions need engineering input, regular safety inspections, and clear signage to avoid overloading. Our latest prosecution gives a tragic insight into what happens if these basics are ignored. https://lnkd.in/gGgtZ6yi

We’re excited to share that Sharon Thompson has started with us as our new Chief Executive.  Sharon has extensive experience in driving change and building highly engaged teams to deliver results. She has led the operations and capability functions at her previous roles and is well placed to drive the delivery of our new strategy and operating plan. We look forward to working under Sharon’s leadership to continue to influence better health and safety outcomes for businesses and workers.

Directors, are you confident that your health and safety system is working the way it's meant to? SafePlus can help. A SafePlus onsite assessment works with people from across your organisation and reviews how your critical risks are managed. Independent SafePlus-trained professionals assess your organisation's practices in leadership, worker engagement, and risk management and provide focused improvement advice. Unpack and review your systems. Challenge ideas. Be curious. Find out more: https://lnkd.in/gQ7jihYb