The Government is establishing WorkSafe New Zealand, a stand-alone Crown Agent, as part of its reform of the New Zealand workplace health and safety system.
It is expected WorkSafe New Zealand to be established by December 2013, depending on passage of the legislation through Parliament.
The creation of a stand-alone health and safety regulatory agency was a key recommendation of both the Royal Commission on the Pike River Coal Mine Tragedy and the Independent Taskforce on Workplace Health and Safety.
MBIE’s workplace health and safety functions and staff will transfer to the agency on establishment.
WorkSafe New Zealand signals a new era. With a single-minded focus on workplace health and safety issues, the agency will have high visibility, provide a single point of accountability and play a leadership role in improving New Zealand’s health and safety performance.
WorkSafe New Zealand will work collaboratively with employers and employees to embed and promote good workplace health and safety practice, and enforce workplace health and safety regulations.