Written by Michael Curreen
A Northland steel worker lost part of a finger after his hand slipped into an unguarded press brake, prompting a USD $220,000 fine.
WorkSafe says the case underlines lead contractors’ duty to protect subcontractors after a roofer fell 4.5 metres in Sydenham.
Poor handling of asbestos remains a deadly threat in ageing buildings, with WorkSafe warning around 220 New Zealanders die each year.
Civil contractors warn tighter visa rules could worsen labour shortages, delay projects and leave key civil works understaffed.
Employers face new duties from 1 December as sector-wide bargaining can set minimum pay, leave and hours for covered workers.
WorkSafe says the case highlights how moving or copying machinery without fresh checks can expose workers to fatal crushing hazards.
Businesses retrofitting flammable hydrocarbon refrigerants into existing cooling systems face a heightened fire and explosion risk, WorkSafe says.
Better training, clearer signage and prompt reporting can help industrial employers cut accidents before they injure workers or halt production.
A $100,000 fine and $43,000 reparation follow a roof-fall that left an Auckland worker with multiple fractures and a year-long recovery.
WorkSafe New Zealand has opted for a binding safety deal after a truck driver was killed in a landfill incident, avoiding prosecution.
Clear job descriptions and flexible working are key to preventing quiet quitting from denting morale and productivity.
A tailored layout could boost productivity, as extroverts and introverts need very different levels of noise, space and company.
Night shifts are raising the risk of hydraulic failures, with poor servicing threatening downtime, accidents and costly compliance breaches.
Remote employees are at greater risk of burnout and isolation, making regular breaks and clear boundaries vital for well-being.
The ERA ruled four Taranaki oil and gas workers were unjustifiably dismissed, ordering nearly GBP £140,000 in back pay and compensation.
Construction workers still face rising anxiety and suicidal thoughts, with MATES in Construction warning wellbeing has not improved since lockdowns ended.
Underground storage of battery-powered tools can turn a small fault into a fire risk, WorkSafe says after a toolbox blaze.
Real-time sensors are helping Dempsey Wood avoid consent breaches, complaints and delays on a Lower Hutt retirement village build.
As IoT adoption grows, businesses face rising cyber risk that could slow trust and stall sales unless protections improve.
Forest workers are safer than a decade ago, but serious injuries and fatal risks still haunt an industry worth NZD $6 billion a year.
