Behind the scenes in unsafe workplaces on TV

September 24 2007

Behind the scenes in unsafe workplaces – Special Investigators on TV ONE.

The human cost of serious accidents in New Zealand workplaces as seen by those who investigate them continues its second season on TV ONE tonight.

Special Investigators follows workplace health and safety inspectors for the Department of Labour as they investigate work-related injuries and fatalities.

The first series was well received, hearteningly so to those whose job it is to investigate and promote workplace safety, said Maarten Quivooy, Department of Labour manager for Workplace Services.

“Health and Safety inspectors are dedicated people, dealing time and again with what are all too often avoidable tragedies which impact on families, friends, workplaces and communities."

“Health and safety procedures are sometimes maligned. This is another good opportunity to communicate our role and through real stories, show what that can happen in workplaces when good practices are not followed.”

“Good health and safety procedures are not just important for workers. Fewer accidents mean lower costs and higher productivity for our business community.”

The Department of Labour is currently running a campaign – Health and Safety - It’s No Joke, promoting the need for safe workplaces.

Series two continues on TV ONE at 9.35pm tonight. Special Investigators is produced by Greenstone Pictures and also features the work of Maritime New Zealand and Civil Aviation inspectors.

Episode one follows Auckland inspector Valma Harris as she looks into the death of a forklift driver, crushed by bales of recycled paper. Elsewhere in Auckland, inspector Tracy Colby is called to a site where a man seeking to recover an expensive drill bit is trapped in a deep hole.

ENDS

To the journalist: please note that health and safety services formerly referred to as Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) should now be referred to as the Department of Labour.

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