Lately, we’ve been busy supporting construction projects across South Auckland, working alongside builders, plumbers, electricians, drainlayers, painters, tilers—in fact, almost every specialist trade. Fair to say there are always health and safety issues in construction, naturally as there are lots of small businesses operating on small margins and a large, at times an inexperienced, workforce.
Simplistic approaches do more harm than good
It’s been a valuable learning experience, reinforcing what we’ve long believed, simplistic approaches create rather than reduce risk.
Simply putting a standard sign on the fence (that everyone ignores) directing them to report to a site office (which does not exist) is one example. Posting a list of standard hazards that does not change from site to site another. Displaying a “Site Safe” sticker on a van or going online to complete a four-hour course and receive your “Site Safety Card” does little to improve health and safety. In some cases, it can even create a false sense that health and safety is being effectively managed, which may increase risk.
There is still plenty of work to do in this high-risk sector. It is full of skilled, committed people, but health and safety processes are often inconsistent or ineffective.
Recognition of the expertise of qualified people
We have also been involved in discussions with WorkSafe as part of supporting construction projects. This included situations where scaffolding is closed partway through being erected, or concerns are raised about workers being supported by a standard 200 × 50 mm scaffold plank. These illustrate the need for practical experience and recognition of the expertise of qualified people. That’s a conversation for another day, but it highlights the challenges the industry continues to face.
NEW ACOP coming
A positive development is the new Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) for Identifying Health and Safety Roles and Responsibilities on a Residential Construction Site. Winsland has been invited to provide further input, having also contributed to the initial draft. The current target is for the ACOP to be published by the end of July 2026.
There is considerable confusion across the sector about roles and responsibilities, so the new ACOP should provide valuable clarity. However, it will not, on its own, solve all of the health and safety challenges facing residential construction.
We are also working with WorkSafe on the adequacy of existing guidance material and the need for an ACOP covering energy-related projects.
Contact us to discuss how we can support your health and safety needs.