Proposed Regulations May Limit Number of Inspectors: Implications Explored
Introduction:
The proposed Plant, Structures, and Hazardous Work regulations in New Zealand could lead to a shortage of inspectors for Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs), warns Rodney Grant, Chief Executive of the Elevating Work Platform Association. With approximately 18,000 MEWPs operating in the country, each requiring two inspections per year, there are only 91 registered inspectors. Under the proposed regulations, the number of inspectors could decrease further. While changes are needed to improve health and safety regulations in sectors such as cranes, scaffolding, roofing, and MEWPs, the increased standards for inspectors may limit options for inspections and result in higher prices. Owners may be forced to seek riskier alternatives or become non-compliant. The proposed regulations are yet to be finalized and no timeline has been provided.
Full Article: Proposed Regulations May Limit Number of Inspectors: Implications Explored
Proposed Changes to Work Regulations Could Impact Mobile Elevated Work Platform Inspections
New Zealand’s proposed Plant, Structures, and Hazardous Work regulations could have a detrimental effect on the number of Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP) inspectors available to maintain the increasing number of machines, according to the Elevating Work Platform Association Chief Executive, Rodney Grant.
The Growing Challenge of Inspections
In New Zealand, there are currently around 18,000 mobile elevating work platforms in operation. Each of these machines requires two inspections per year. However, as of 2021, there were only 91 registered inspectors responsible for conducting over 200 inspections annually. This means that on average, each inspector would need to perform one inspection every day. The proposed regulations could exacerbate this issue.
The Need for Urgent Changes
The current health and safety regulations in the construction industry, particularly for cranes, scaffolding, roofing, and MEWPs, are outdated and pose significant risks to workers. While changes are urgently required, the proposed increased standards for inspectors’ competencies may lead to a decrease in the number of available inspectors.
The Proposed Inspector Requirements
Under the proposed regulations, inspectors would need to be certified by the Certified Builder Inspection Program (CBIP), possess an AS/NZS2214 welding supervisor qualification, and be part of a Registered Inspector Body controlled by WorkSafe. However, there is no requirement for inspectors to have in-depth knowledge of MEWPs, except for a basic understanding of the relevant standards. Additionally, there is no requirement for inspectors to stay informed about MEWP technologies, issues, and worldwide incident reporting.
Potential Consequences
The proposed regulations could limit the options available to end users when selecting an inspection provider, leading to a potential monopoly in the market and increased inspection prices. This would have an impact on the owners of the plants, who may be forced to choose between non-compliance or riskier, more affordable options for working at height. MEWPs are considered an effective control measure in reducing risks associated with working at height.
Other Concerns
In addition to the potential impact on inspections, there are other issues with the proposed regulations. Despite being drafted in mid-2019, there is no definite timeline provided by the government for their publication. This lack of clarity exacerbates the existing concerns within the industry.
Conclusion
The construction industry is eager for the government to address these concerns swiftly and finalize the proposed regulations. The goal is to create a safer industry with fewer restrictions when working at height.
Summary: Proposed Regulations May Limit Number of Inspectors: Implications Explored
The proposed regulations for Plant, Structures, and Hazardous Work in New Zealand may lead to a shortage of Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP) inspectors, according to Elevating Work Platform Association Chief Executive Rodney Grant. There are currently only 91 registered inspectors responsible for inspecting approximately 18,000 MEWPs, with each inspector needing to carry out over 200 inspections per year. The proposed regulations would increase the requirements for inspectors’ competencies without focusing on their understanding of MEWPs. This could create a monopoly in the market and increase inspection prices, potentially forcing owners to choose riskier options for working at height. These concerns, along with the delayed publication of the regulations, highlight the need for urgent action from the government.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Frequently Asked Questions – Proposed Regulations would shrink pool of inspectors
1. What are the proposed regulations regarding the inspector pool?
The proposed regulations aim to reduce the number of inspectors working in various industries by implementing stricter requirements and qualifications. The intention is to maintain a more selective and highly skilled group of inspectors.
2. Why are the regulations proposing to shrink the inspector pool?
The regulations aim to enhance the overall quality and effectiveness of inspections by ensuring that only the most competent inspectors who meet the new stringent criteria are allowed to operate. This ensures better public safety, reduces inspection-related errors, and makes the process more streamlined.
3. What impact will these regulations have on existing inspectors?
Existing inspectors will need to meet the new qualifications outlined in the proposed regulations to continue practicing. Those who fail to meet the requirements may no longer be eligible to work as inspectors. This aims to improve the overall competence and professionalism of the inspector pool.
4. How will the proposed regulations affect industries relying on inspections?
Initially, there may be a shortage of inspectors due to a reduced pool. However, as the inspector pool shrinks, the overall quality and competency of inspections are expected to increase. This will lead to enhanced safety measures, better compliance, and improved industry standards in the long run.
5. What are some potential benefits of shrinking the inspector pool?
Some potential benefits include:
- Higher quality inspections due to more stringent qualifications.
- Reduced error rates during inspections.
- Increased public safety and improved compliance.
- Streamlined inspection processes.
- Enhanced professionalism in the inspector pool.
6. How can interested parties provide feedback on the proposed regulations?
Interested parties can provide feedback and comments on the proposed regulations through the designated channels provided by the regulatory body overseeing the changes. This may include public consultation periods, online platforms, or submission forms.
7. What is the expected timeline for implementing these regulations?
The specific timeline for the implementation of the proposed regulations may vary depending on the regulatory body and the industry involved. However, there is typically a transition period provided to allow existing inspectors to meet the new requirements and ensure a smooth transition to the revised inspector pool.
