Latest News and Information
NZ Health & Safety News (27 July – 3 August 2025)
- Manufacturers say health & safety rules “unworkable”
As of 30 July 2025, manufacturers warn current H&S regulations—especially on machine guarding, wood-dust, and welding fumes—are overly complex and unclear. Government consultation on simplifying these standards is underway until September.
Read more - Survivors recount toxic gas ordeal; fines exceed NZ$600K
Two companies were fined over NZ$600,000 after workers suffered hydrogen sulphide exposure near Greymouth due to no gas monitors and failed risk assessments. Long-term injuries and PTSD were reported.
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WorkSafe energy-safety business update issued
The July edition covers electrical and gas accidents, recalls on Serene heaters, socket-outlet assemblies on construction sites, and a winter safety campaign.
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System safety strategy underway in health sector
Te Tāhū Hauora’s Health Quality & Safety Commission leads a co-designed system safety strategy for Aotearoa’s health and disability sector, prioritising safety culture and harm learning.
Read more - Biosecurity system action plan released
MPI launched a shared action plan in July to strengthen NZ’s biosecurity system—including health protection from pests and diseases—inviting stakeholder collaboration until 22 August.
Read more - Nurses strike highlights staffing safety crisis
On 30 July, ∼36,000 nurses, midwives, and healthcare assistants struck over under-inflation pay offers and chronic staffing shortages that compromise patient and worker safety.
Read more - Public health guidance issued for hairdressers
On 17 July, the Ministry of Health released guidance for hairdressing and barbering services to reduce infection risk and ensure client safety.
Read more - Royal Commission hearings begin
From 7 July 2025, the first public hearings into New Zealand’s COVID-19 response were livestreamed in Auckland, examining lockdowns, vaccine mandates, and their broader impacts.
Read more - Health & safety reform agenda deepens
WorkSafe reform continues: Ministry for Regulation confirmed revocation of hairdresser licensing rules and is developing nationwide health & safety regulation updates.
Read more - Regulatory Standards Bill threatens public health
The Regulatory Standards Bill’s principles may undermine public health protections by excluding the ‘public harm principle,’ making it harder to regulate tobacco, alcohol, and clean air measures.
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