New Zealand's workplace safety record at risk.
Changes to New Zealand's health and safety laws are set to take effect, stripping back key protections for small businesses and potentially putting working Kiwis at greater risk. According to Labour workplace relations spokesperson Jan Tinetti, the Government's decision is "reckless" and out of step with business and labour experts' recommendations.
The changes have been met with criticism from employers, unions, and safety experts who urge practical improvements such as better system leadership, clearer regulations, and increased investment in WorkSafe. The move has sparked concerns about workplace safety, given New Zealand's already high rate of workplace deaths. Data from WorkSafe reveals that 17 people die every week due to work-related incidents, with someone being seriously injured every 15 minutes.
Jan Tinetti argues the Government is prioritising ideological points over expert advice and public safety, echoing its approach to school lunches. The changes are set to leave working New Zealanders more vulnerable to workplace accidents and injuries.