WorkSafe Safety Push Reveals Major Farm Safety Gaps Across New Zealand
A safety push across New Zealand has revealed significant gaps in hazardous substances management, farm vehicles, tractors, quad bikes and side-by-sides.
RCNZ chief executive Roger Parton says rural contractors need to get to grips with proposed changes to health and safety regulations following the recent introduction of the Health & Safety in Employment Reform Bill into Parliament.
"There are some really major changes planned which will most definitely affect rural contractors," he says.
"The penalties for getting it wrong, should someone suffer a bad accident at their workplace, are very severe."
Parton says the roadshow presentation will cover what these changes mean for the agricultural contractor. And, just as importantly, how will it affect directors of companies, sole traders, employees, volunteers and anyone who 'works' for them.
"The presentation will cover all of these areas and much more, giving attendees an understanding of what this legislation will mean for each agricultural contractor," Parton says.
He says the roadshows will also include:
• Updates on transport legislation
• The new Members Rebate Scheme
• Employment law and changes in the wind
• Rural Contractors Accreditation Programme
• The 2014 conference
The venues and dates for each of the roadshows have been mailed to members and are also up on the RCNZ website: www.ruralcontractors.org.nz . Each session starts at 7pm and will be followed with light refreshments.
"Contractors are very welcome to attend the most convenient venue for them and to bring along anyone in the industry who may also be interested," Paton adds.
"I look forward to seeing as many rural contractors at these roadshows as possible and providing updates and information on these all-important topics."
