One-day Conference

THE FUTURE OF HEALTH AND SAFETY

Thursday, 25 July 2024; Christchurch Town Hall.

There have been several significant developments within the health and safety industry in the last year or so. Some of these will have far-reaching implications and will determine how the health and safety industry navigates many of the challenges ahead.

The first development is the increased awareness and understanding of the role that mental wellbeing plays in the workplace. Managing psychosocial risks and implementing meaningful strategies that improve resilience and culture can have many positive effects on both health and safety, and productivity.

Sir John Kirwan, the legend of both rugby and mental health, will deliver a keynote presentation on wellbeing. His story of overcoming significant physical and mental challenges will resonate with all New Zealanders, and he will share his insights and practical solutions on how to manage mental health in the workplace.

The second development is the restructuring of WorkSafe, and how this will affect both the short and longtime strategies of the organization in regulating health and safety and minimizing workplace harm. The new WorkSafe CEO, Steve Haszard, will deliver a presentation outlining the direction and focus of WorkSafe going forward.

The Whakaari/White Island tragedy and subsequent court decisions has prompted a lot of discussion within the industry regarding the role of directors in managing health and safety, and on the responsibility of PCBU’s both up and down the supply chain. Garth Galloway is a prominent lawyer who has extensive involvement in health and safety case law for many decades. Garth represented individuals and organisations involved in the case and is well positioned to provide expert commentary on the decisions and the implications for the future. 

In addition, the BIMSafe NZ project will deliver a presentation about using three-dimensional computer models to improve health and safety in all stages of a construction project. The use of digital technology is increasing exponentially in New Zealand, and the project is all about leveraging the collaboration and communication opportunities to better manage and communicate risks and hazards.

This one-day conference is a must for all those involved in managing health and safety in their workplace, either as a business owner or director, people manager, or health and safety advisor.

Early bird registrations are open now.