As with all legislative changes, there are a number of workers, companies and organisations that are not fully aware of what the new law means for them. However, the transition to the new workplace health and safety act is not as complex as many think. This is especially true of companies who have strong WHS procedures in place and who currently use safety software such as New Zealand's SiteApp.

However, this has not stopped several misunderstandings from developing under the new laws.

Workers and companies unaware of their responsibilities

One of the big shifts coming from the new WHS legislation is added focus on worker obligations to themselves and others. Yet, it would seem that this has made many unsure about what they need to actually do. New Zealand's media sites have been filled with people who are unsure of their requirements.

For instance, a recent story run by Fairfax shows that a worker in Timaru has refused a number of jobs because he is unsure about what is expected of him. Specifically, he would not take any contracts that would require him to go on a roof, because he believed he would need harness training and other equipment to do so.

Yet, a WorkSafe NZ spokeswoman pointed out that this is not a requirement under the new Act as long as he is appropriately managing risks and hazards to the best of his ability.

Ambiguity can be a major obstacle for workers, especially in high risk areas such as construction. In response, workers need to ensure they have access to up-to-date information on site, so they can be sure what they are doing is compliant under the law. Safety apps are an effective way to achieve this. 

WHS more than worker's responsibilities

While there is a certain level of confusion when it comes to workers, organisations on the other hand, are responsible for both their own actions and those of their workers. The Act is clear when it comes to companies and boards about what is expected as it defines their duties clearly. 

Organisations need to ensure that they have a good understanding of their risk profile, have key measures in place and a system that provides up-to-date and pertinent information on whether these mechanisms are working. While these are essential components, they are not always sufficient at minimising risk. Companies also need to ensure they are able to communicate work health and safety to contractors and employees in the field.

With the introduction of the concept of 'person conducting a business or undertaking' (PCBU), organisations are required to ensure, as far as reasonably practicable, the health and safety of workers on site. This can be hard, especially in the construction industry, where most workers are operating remotely. Yet, there are a number of ways to ensure that workers are not left out of the loop and thus reduce the risk of a compliance breach. 

One of the most effective approaches is cloud-based safety software. SiteApp is one of New Zealand's leading online safety applications that can ensure that all documentation is up-to-date and all workers are aware of their roles and responsibilities. This app makes keeping workplaces hazard-free easier than with traditional paper-based processes. 

Furthermore, the easy interface and intuitive design makes it simple for all workers to use. By guiding them through hazard identification and risk analysis processes, measures can be quickly put in place and the hazard analysis repeated. 

If you are looking to add more to your health and safety processes, SiteApp is a good place to start. So contact a representative today to find out how it can help you ensure compliance across the board.