Business Canterbury has welcomed the announcement that Government will consult with the manufacturing sector on simplified workplace safety regulations, particularly for machine guarding rules and exposure standards that have long been a source of frustration for Canterbury manufacturers.
Business Canterbury Chief Executive, Leeann Watson says, “The announcement by Workplace Relations and Safety Minister, Hon Brooke van Velden, aligns with Business Canterbury’s longstanding advocacy for practical, consistent, and clear health and safety regulations, and follows feedback the Minister received directly from Business Canterbury members during her roadshow last year.
“Similar to the Minister, we have also heard from Canterbury businesses receiving conflicting advice from WorkSafe inspectors on identical machinery in different locations, or between similar businesses, creating unnecessary confusion and compliance costs. This review is a positive step toward addressing these inconsistencies.
“The current approach to workplace safety regulations in these areas has been described by our members as inconsistent and therefore unclear. Some have invested tens of thousands of dollars in equipment and controls but still struggle to comply with standards that don’t align with international benchmarks or practical realities.
“This confusion is often exacerbated by WorkSafe, which currently takes an enforcement-first approach and refuses to provide advice, rather than a view to helping businesses implement standards which actually generate better health and safety outcomes.
“The Minister’s recent letter of expectations to WorkSafe to change the enforcement-first culture has been welcomed, and businesses are waiting to see changes on the ground.
“When our local businesses can focus on managing genuine risks rather than navigating complex and sometimes contradictory regulations, they can operate more efficiently, continue to keep their people safe, and contribute more effectively to our regional economy.”
Business Canterbury will be actively engaging with the consultation process and encourages members to participate and share their experiences and suggestions.
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