Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 

Are you confused by all those health and safety posters in the office, leaving you wondering what they mean? Or, unsure of your responsibilities as a business owner when it comes to the well-being of your workers? The answer to both these questions lies in understanding New Zealand's Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA). 

This guide dives deep into the HSWA. We won't just explain the Act – we'll show you how it can be a powerful tool to cultivate a thriving workplace that benefits everyone. 

What is the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015? 

The Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA) is the cornerstone of workplace safety in New Zealand, setting a legal framework for keeping everyone safe at work, from bustling factories to quiet home offices. 

Enacted in 2015, it replaced the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992, with a key improvement being its focus on shared responsibility. This means employers, employees, and even visitors all play a part. While employers hold the primary duty of care, employees are now actively involved in maintaining a safe work environment, fostering a culture of open communication and risk awareness.  

This collaborative approach goes beyond just following rules – it empowers everyone to take ownership of safety, ultimately leading to a healthier and happier work environment for all. 

Why is the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 Important? 

Imagine a workplace where accidents are commonplace, and workers constantly worry about getting hurt. Not a pleasant thought, right? The Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 combats this by promoting a proactive safety culture— 

• The Act encourages businesses to identify potential hazards and take steps to prevent them before accidents occur. This proactive approach creates a safer work environment overall. 
  
  
• By prioritising safety, businesses foster a culture where workers feel valued and protected. 
  

• Fewer accidents lead to reduced workplace injuries and illnesses, benefiting both employees and employers. This translates into several positive outcomes: reduced downtime, improved morale, and a positive company culture. 

Employer Obligations in Workplace Safety (HSWA) 

The Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 places significant responsibility on employers, also known as PCBUs (Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking), to ensure the safety and well-being of their workers and anyone potentially affected by their work activities. Here's a breakdown of their key obligations: 

• Providing a Safe Work Environment: This includes the physical workplace layout, structure, and equipment. PCBUs must ensure the environment is free from hazards and promote safety. This could involve regular inspections, proper ventilation, and maintaining walkways free from clutter. 

• Safe Equipment and Machinery: PCBUs are responsible for maintaining equipment in a safe working condition. This includes regular maintenance schedules, ensuring proper use, and providing training on operating machinery safely. 

• Safe Work Practices and Procedures: Establishing clear and well-defined procedures for various tasks is crucial. This includes training workers on these procedures and ensuring they have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their jobs safely. 

• Information, Instruction, Training, and Supervision: PCBUs must provide workers with adequate information and instruction on potential hazards, safe work practices, and how to use personal protective equipment (PPE). This can involve training sessions, safety manuals, and ongoing supervision to ensure safe work practices are followed. 

• Consultation and Participation: Workers have a right to be involved in health and safety matters. PCBUs should consult with workers on workplace safety issues and consider their suggestions for improvement. 
  
  
• Adequate Facilities for Workers: Providing toilets, washing facilities, and a safe space for breaks and meals is essential for worker well-being. These facilities should be clean, accessible, and well-maintained. 

Employee Obligations in Workplace Safety (HSWA) 

While the primary responsibility lies with employers, employees also play a vital role in maintaining a safe work environment. Here are some key employee obligations within the HSWA framework: 

• Taking Care of Their Own Safety: Workers must act in a way that protects themselves from harm. This includes avoiding unsafe work practices, using PPE when required, and reporting any unsafe equipment. 

• Taking Care of Other’s Safety: Employees should be mindful of the safety of co-workers and visitors. This means following safety procedures and not creating unnecessary hazards. 

• Reporting Hazards and Unsafe Conditions: Workers have a right and responsibility to report any potential hazards or unsafe conditions and actions they encounter in the workplace. This enables employers to address the issue and prevent accidents. 
• Cooperation: Employees should cooperate with their employer’s health and safety initiatives. This includes participating in training sessions, using PPE appropriately, and providing feedback on safety procedures. 

Obligations of Others in Workplace Safety (HSWA) 

The Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 promotes a shared responsibility for workplace safety. While employers and employees have the biggest responsibilities, the Act acknowledges that visitors and others who interact with the workplace also have obligations. Here's a breakdown of obligations for some key groups:  

Designers, Manufacturers, and Suppliers:

Those who design, manufacture, or supply equipment or substances used in workplaces must ensure that their products are safe for use. This includes: 

• Providing Clear Information: Supplying adequate instructions and warnings on the safe use, storage, and disposal of their products. 
• Designing for Safety: Incorporating safety features into the design of equipment and machinery. 

Visitors to Workplaces:

Visitors to workplaces also have a responsibility to take reasonable care of their own safety and that of others. This includes: 

• Following Safety Instructions: Following all safety rules and procedures set by the workplace host. 
• Being Aware of Surroundings: Paying attention to potential hazards and avoiding unsafe actions. 

Why Do You Need Health and Safety Training? 

Regular health and safety training nz is essential for fulfilling the duties outlined in the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015. 

• This training helps workers in a few ways: 
• Identify hazards in the workplace. 
• Understand safe work procedures. 
• Training makes workers more responsible for their own safety and the safety of others. 
• Training isn't a one-time thing. The nature of work can change, and new hazards can emerge. To stay on top of things, there are two things employers should do: 
  
• Offer refresher training to update worker’s knowledge.
• Keep everyone informed about safety issues through ongoing communication. 

Future-Proof Your Workplace with ACT Safety Training 

As a leading provider of health and safety training in New Zealand, ACT Safety helps you comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015. Our experienced trainers, with backgrounds in various industries, deliver engaging courses that equip your workers with the knowledge and skills they need for a safe and productive workplace. 

Contact ACT Safety today to discuss your specific needs and how we can help you build a strong culture of safety in your workplace. 

Let's work together to make New Zealand workplaces safer and healthier for everyone!