Media release
17 January 2013
Builders urged to make safety a priority in 2013
Last year health and safety inspectors issued over 1,000 notices and written warnings to construction companies
performing work at height unsafely.
Inspectors from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment assessed more than 1,600 construction sites in 2012
as part of the Preventing Falls from Height project, which aims to reduce injuries and fatalities caused by falls in the
construction sector.
The project continues in 2013 and construction workers are urged to make safety a priority in the New Year.
“The Ministry will continue to target sites that carry out work at height unsafely and those companies that put their
workers at risk,” says Francois Barton, the Ministry’s Southern Division General Manager.
“We want to see enforcement figures improving in 2013 – safe work at height should be standard practice in the
industry.”
“Despite the high number of notices and warnings issued last year, it has been very positive to see some construction
companies using innovative solutions to ensure their staff are safe while working at height. Companies are using
adaptive scaffolding systems, mobile stair systems instead of ladders, and soft landing systems to stop workers getting
hurt from falling off the top plate.”
“Many of these solutions are also increasing productivity by improving access for builders and the tradespeople that
work alongside them.”
Builders, roofers, electrical workers, painters and decorators are the most likely to fall from height and get seriously
hurt while they are working.
“Tradespeople are going back to work after a few weeks off, so now is the time for a renewed focus on safety issues,” Mr
Barton says.
Hundreds of construction workers are injured on building sites every year – these accidents are preventable if every
care is taken. Workers must make safety a priority, particularly over summer when there is an overall increase in
workplace injury.
“Working long hours in the sun can take its toll, so it is also important for workers to look after themselves both
physically and mentally – take breaks and stay hydrated, and keep an eye on stress and fatigue levels,” Mr Barton says.
“Health and safety is the responsibility of everyone on the site. We all have a role to play in improving workplace
safety – doing nothing is not an option.”
More information on the preventing Falls from height project is available at http://dol.govt.nz/prevent-falls/index.asp
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