Health and safety changes discussed

Thane Young, the zero harm adviser for Downer, talking about health and safety issues at the breakfast meeting yesterday morning. Photo / Christine McKay

With impending changes to workplace health and safety legislation next year a presentation by Thane Young of Downers was right on target for members of the Dannevirke Chamber of Commerce yesterday morning.

Mr Young, the zero harm advisor for Downers, has had 15 years' experience working with health and safety issues, with a background in the military and forestry before joining the company.

"Health and safety issues can be quite confusing, but looking after your staff is your concern, even for shareholders and directors. Yes, it's quite challenging to get your head around this, but health and safety is everyone's concern," he said.

An investigator of the Pike River mining tragedy where 29 men lost their lives in an explosion at the Grey Valley mine on November 19, 2010, Mr Young said the dropping of charges against Pike River Coal chief executive Peter Whittall was the driver for new legislation.

"Everyone, including shareholders and directors, are now responsible for staff and contractors. There are some challenges out there, but if you are involved in any way you don't want blood on your hands."

Downers are happy to provide a template for businesses' health and safety plans, as Mr Young said transitioning to law changes next year will be a steep learning curve for many.

"It's about managing hazards and minimising dangers and the new law is about managing the risk, with more emphasis on employers and employee participation."

Dannevirke businessman Craig Lancaster asked about the grey areas in the legislation. "There is a huge grey area of what to do and how far to go," he said.

Everyone must do due diligence, with reasonable workplace practices, Mr Young said.

"Health and safety and business efficiency must be balanced and only you can judge that."

Ernie Christison said he first met Mr Young 12 years ago.

"I was cutting down trees in Dannevirke and Thane came along and shut me down. He told me compliance was everything. I'm now the most ticketed tree felling company around and the Tararua is very lucky to have him."