The Alarming Disparity: New Zealand’s Workplace Fatality Rate Exceeds Australia’s Twofold
Introduction:
A new report reveals that New Zealand is significantly lagging behind other countries in addressing work-related harm, which costs the country $4.4 billion annually. The “State of a Thriving Nation” report, produced by Sense Partners and Shamubeel Eaqub on behalf of the Business Leaders’ Health and Safety Forum, highlights the economic and qualitative data surrounding the country’s health, safety, and wellbeing performance. The report emphasizes the need for improvements in workplace health and safety, particularly in reducing fatality rates and matching the performance of Australia. The upcoming general election is also mentioned, calling for prioritization of clear regulatory expectations and accountability for businesses. Read the full report for more information.
Full Article: The Alarming Disparity: New Zealand’s Workplace Fatality Rate Exceeds Australia’s Twofold
New Zealand Lags Behind in Work-related Health and Safety, Costing the Country Billions
New Zealand is falling far behind other countries when it comes to mitigating work-related harm, according to a new report. The report, titled “The State of a Thriving Nation,” reveals that work-related harm costs the country a staggering $4.4 billion annually.
The Report’s Findings
The State of a Thriving Nation report, produced by Sense Partners and Shamubeel Eaqub on behalf of the Business Leaders’ Health and Safety Forum, provides a comprehensive look at New Zealand’s health, safety, and wellbeing performance. The report highlights the enormous economic cost of lost lives, lost earnings, serious injuries, and health costs resulting from work-related harm.
The report also emphasizes two main issues that businesses face in 2023: an economic slowdown and a general election. It explores how these factors impact workplace health and safety in New Zealand.
New Zealand’s Slow Progress
While the report acknowledges some progress in the country’s health and safety performance, it deems the pace too slow. Comparing New Zealand’s performance to that of Australia, the report reveals that aligning with Australia’s standards could save New Zealand nearly $1 billion per year.
Furthermore, the report highlights that fatality rates in New Zealand remain alarmingly high and comparable to those the United Kingdom faced in the 1980s.
The Impact of Economic Cycles
According to economist Shamubeel Eaqub, different stages of the economic cycle result in different causes of harm. During economic booms, there tends to be excessive busyness, which can compromise safety systems, processes, and corporate culture. On the other hand, economic downturns may lead to cuts in safety measures, training, and resources focused on culture and wellbeing.
Despite moderate economic growth projected in the upcoming year, businesses expect to continue investing significantly in capital, technology, and training, according to a survey conducted by the Business Leaders’ Health and Safety Forum.
Addressing the Challenges Ahead
With the general election on the horizon, the report calls for the new government to prioritize workplace health and safety. It emphasizes the need for clear regulatory expectations on businesses and effective follow-through and accountability to ensure a level playing field.
Forum CEO Francois Barton asserts that New Zealand’s health and safety performance is a significant national issue that requires action from both the government and businesses. He urges the Health and Safety at Work Strategy 2018-28 to establish a workplan and a system oversight or governance to improve the country’s health and safety outcomes.
Continued Efforts for a Safer Work Environment
The State of a Thriving Nation report serves as a reminder that New Zealand can and must do better in safeguarding the wellbeing of its workforce. It calls for a collective effort from business leaders, government, and regulators to reduce the economic and social toll of work-related harm on the country and its people.
To read the full report, click here.
Summary: The Alarming Disparity: New Zealand’s Workplace Fatality Rate Exceeds Australia’s Twofold
New Zealand is lagging behind other countries in addressing work-related harm, with a new report showing that it costs the country $4.4 billion annually. The “State of a Thriving Nation” report highlights the economic and qualitative data associated with health, safety, and well-being in New Zealand. Produced by Sense Partners and Shamubeel Eaqub on behalf of the Business Leaders’ Health and Safety Forum, the report reveals that if New Zealand could match Australia’s performance, it could save nearly $1 billion per year. The report also calls for the new government to prioritize a level playing field and effective regulation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
FAQs – NZ Workplace Fatality Rate
Q: What is the current workplace fatality rate in New Zealand compared to Australia?
A: Currently, New Zealand has a workplace fatality rate that is double that of Australia.
Q: Why is the workplace fatality rate higher in New Zealand compared to Australia?
A: There are several factors contributing to the higher workplace fatality rate in New Zealand. These include:
- Limited enforcement and compliance with health and safety regulations
- Lack of effective workplace safety policies and procedures
- Insufficient investment in health and safety training programs
- Poor safety culture within organizations
Q: What industries have the highest workplace fatality rates in New Zealand?
A: The industries with the highest workplace fatality rates in New Zealand are construction, agriculture, forestry, and fishing.
Q: How does New Zealand compare to other countries in terms of workplace fatality rates?
A: While New Zealand’s workplace fatality rate is double that of Australia, it is still relatively low compared to some other countries.
For example, New Zealand’s workplace fatality rate is significantly lower than countries like the United States and China.
Q: What measures are being taken to reduce workplace fatalities in New Zealand?
A: The New Zealand government and various organizations are actively working to reduce workplace fatalities through measures such as:
- Improving enforcement of health and safety regulations
- Strengthening workplace health and safety legislation
- Promoting safety education and training programs
- Encouraging a stronger safety culture within organizations
Q: How can individuals contribute to reducing workplace fatalities in New Zealand?
A: Individuals can play a crucial role in reducing workplace fatalities by:
- Keeping themselves informed about workplace health and safety regulations
- Raising safety concerns with employers or relevant authorities
- Following safety protocols and procedures at their workplace
- Participating in health and safety training programs
