Risk assessment stories
An Otago University study says Christchurch’s liquefaction-affected soil could not support Legionella, ruling it out as a direct cause of the spike.
Missing the certified system by 4 April will invalidate licences, forcing asbestos removers to stop work and risking prosecution.
Senior managers are being urged to tackle work-related road risk as new free guidance highlights safety, compliance and cost savings.
Many firms still face health and safety blind spots, with the new audit rating contractors and workplaces before fines or jail become a risk.
Two-thirds of New Zealand businesses may be missing contractor and workplace risks, with fines or imprisonment possible under new law.
A drainage contractor was fined NZD $48,875 after poor hazard planning left a worker run over by an excavator and badly injured.
The fatal collapse exposed gaps in risk controls after WorkSafe found the packaging firm relied on workers to manage dangerous machinery themselves.
Left untreated, repetitive workplace tasks can trigger debilitating hand pain and tingling, forcing businesses to act on a serious health risk.
Farmers hosting duck shooting or other events face duties to manage hazards for visitors under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015.
Childcare providers and schools are being urged to inspect play equipment, after WorkSafe NZ warned ropes and cords can cause fatal strangulation.
Near misses and clear routines are helping one Kaipara Harbour beef operation cut farm risks, with safety now built into meetings and daily work.
Farmers face tighter limits on quad bike passengers after safety guidance said riders should only do so when no reasonable alternative exists.
Businesses sharing workplaces face fines if they fail to coordinate safety duties under new law aimed at closing gaps for workers.
Workplace drinks can expose employers to liability if staff leave intoxicated, with experts urging clear controls and safe transport.
New Zealand directors may face sharper scrutiny after an Australian ruling over a contractor’s electrocution clarified who counts as an officer.
Workers and neighbours were exposed to asbestos fibres after demolition proceeded without checks, leaving a North Shore homeowner with a NZD $49,000 bill.
More accurate assessments could help clinicians target treatment and reduce harmful sexual behaviour in the community and workplace.
A lack of basic cleanup and warning procedures left a slippery berth contaminated for two days, contributing to a visitor’s death at South Port New Zealand.
Apps could help curb rising stroke rates by nudging younger adults to tackle diabetes, obesity and other modifiable risks.
WorkSafe’s case against MSD is a warning to public-facing employers to review protections after Ashburton exposed deadly gaps in staff safety.
