Taskforce on Workplace Health and Safety Recommendations

20 May 2013

Press Release

The New Zealand Industry Training Organisation

Subject: Independent Taskforce on Workplace Health and Safety Recommendations

The New Zealand Industry Training Organisation (NZITO) is the standard setting body for occupational health and safety training registered on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework.

NZITO have thoroughly reviewed the Taskforce’s reports and welcome the recommendations released at the end of April. We are now awaiting the Government’s response.

We note that one recommendation aligns with work that has progressed in the Targeted Review of Qualifications across the OHS training and education. Whilst the review is on hold awaiting formal engagement with the new OHS agency, the proposed qualification structure could be a component part of the pathway to the professional registration of OHS practitioners.

There are a large number of other recommendations that will impact on the training and education sectors which we will be focusing on as and when the formal response from Government is announced and the new OHS agency has been formed with the capability to engage on such matters. These include suggestions to embed OHS in all level 1-6 vocational training; targeting literacy and numeracy towards at risk groups; a question around where the standard setting role should be posited, and more active engagement from the regulator in setting Approved Codes of Practice.

We congratulate the Taskforce for its comprehensive consultation and well considered recommendations.

ENDS

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