Health and Safety stories
Wellington City Council faces a NZD $6 million repair bill after 17,000 LED streetlights proved unsafe in strong winds.
Operators could face new competency checks as WorkSafe seeks feedback on rules covering mining and quarrying certificates of competence.
Modelling suggests scrapping the seven-day rule could lift hospital admissions and deaths by up to 25% over six months.
Offshore wind could help bridge Australia’s huge clean-power gap, with grid demand set to double by 2050 under net zero plans.
With injuries and labour shortages biting, wearable robotics are being trialled to cut strain, lift productivity and keep workers on the job.
A new industry panel will shape New Zealand’s switch to risk-based roadworks safety rules, with 12 appointees chosen from 38 applicants.
A father left with 11 surgeries after a 12-metre fall will receive reparation as the council is held accountable for safety lapses at the festival.
Worksites remain vulnerable to falls, electrocution and fire, with the risk of serious injury or death still high without strict controls.
A West Auckland bakery has been fined GBP £18,000 after two workers suffered severe hand injuries from unguarded machines.
Workers face contamination risks from flood silt, with WorkSafe warning of germs, chemicals and asbestos during clean-up.
Poor mental wellbeing is fuelling accidents on sites, prompting calls for first aiders who can spot distress and prevent injuries before they happen.
WorkSafe and Water Safety New Zealand warn pond owners to fence off hazards after a council's sentencing over three-year-old Lachlan Jones' death.
A Northland orchard worker was left with permanent vision damage after a wire snapped, exposing failures in training, supervision and PPE use.
Real-time sensors are helping contractors avoid costly consent breaches, complaints and delays by flagging noise, dust and vibration risks early.
A Tauranga skip-bin firm has been fined NZD $250,000 after a new worker was crushed and left with life-changing brain injuries.
Communities face repeated outages and costly repairs unless planners shift to more resilient, wellbeing-based infrastructure decisions.
A Christchurch flooring job ended in court after asbestos-tainted vinyl was handled unsafely, triggering fines and fresh warnings.
Workers coping with crisis can ease anxiety and know when to seek help, with MATES in Construction urging quick action.
Worksites face fresh safety guidance as WorkSafe consults on how to stop containers creating traffic, stability and stacking hazards.
Homeowners risk mould and structural damage if flood repairs begin before hidden moisture is fully removed, new BRANZ guidance warns.
