That’s why Rural Contractors New Zealand (RCNZ) will be hitting the road next month. During May, RCNZ will be updating its members, and others interested in the rural contracting industry, on the latest changes in health and safety, transport and employment laws – as well as a number of other topics – in roadshows nationwide.
These roadshows will be presented by RCNZ’s chief executive Roger Parton – a veritable, walking encyclopaedia on such topics. As Roger says, rural contractors “need to get to grips” with changes to health and safety regulations following the recent introduction of the Health & Safety in Employment Reform Bill into Parliament.
There are some big changes proposed and these will most definitely affect rural contractors. The penalties for getting it wrong – should anyone suffer a major accident at their workplace – are going to be severe.
The roadshow presentation will cover what these changes in health and safety mean, in fact, for agricultural contractors. And, just as importantly, how these will affect directors of companies, sole traders, employees, volunteers and anyone else who works in the sector.
The roadshows will also include updates and information on the following topics: transport legislation, the new members rebate scheme, employment law and changes in the wind, the Rural Contractors accreditation programme and the 2014 conference.
The venues and dates for each of our roadshow meetings have been mailed out to members, but are also up on the RCNZ website www.ruralcontractors.org.nz. The sessions start at 7pm and will be followed by light refreshments and a chance for a general catch-up.
Meanwhile, the events being held in Rotorua, Palmerston North, Ashburton and Gore will also double as the relevant zone area annual meetings.
I urge all RCNZ members to attend the most convenient location for them and to bring along anyone in the industry who may also be interested. It gives us, as an organisation, the opportunity to provide the latest updates and information. It also allows members to ask questions of RCNZ, raise any issues concerning them, and gives opportunity to network with other rural contractors.
This is the perfect chance for RCNZ members – and other interested parties – to get along and tells us what you think.
Contractor’s tip: Mud on roads.
As we head into winter and the increased likelihood of more rain and resulting mud, spare a thought for others travelling on the roads. Ensure any excess mud or dirt is cleaned off your tractors and/or machines before leaving the paddock and hitting the road.
• Agricultural contractor Steve Levet, Wellsford, is the president of the Rural Contractors New Zealand (RCNZ).
