Safety investigation at ports
The government has launched an investigation into New Zealand’s ports following the deaths of two workers this month.
Stevedore Atiroa Jnr Tuaiti died from a fall at Ports of Auckland on April 19 and a Lyttelton Port Company worker was killed on the 25th aboard a vessel being loaded with coal for export.
These fatalities follow high-profile deaths at ports during recent years, including Pala’amo Kalati and Laboom Dyer at Auckland.
Tuaiti’s death came 12 months after an independent review found systemic problems with health and safety at the council-owned business.
Michael Wood, who is Minister of Workplace Relations and Safety as well as transport, met union calls on April 27 for a wider review into port health and safety practices nationwide.
He says: “All New Zealanders should return from work safe and unharmed. Recently, we’ve seen a disproportionate number of injuries and fatalities in the port industry.” The actions taken will provide clarity on how we can reduce these serious incidents.
Wood, pictured, has directed the Transport Accident Investigation Commission to start an investigation to establish if any system-wide lessons to improve safety can be learnt.
He has asked all port companies to review their operations and provide assurances that appropriate steps are being taken to minimise the risk of harm connected to high-risk activities.
He also wants the Ports Leadership Group to prepare advice on additional priority actions for him to consider, including whether regulation changes are required.
That group is made up of representatives from the Port Industry Association, the Maritime Union of NZ, Rail and Maritime Transport Union, port chief executives, WorkSafe and Maritime NZ.
Officers from Maritime NZ and WorkSafe inspectors will now be undertaking assessments at the country’s 13 major international commercial ports.
Wood adds: “We are sending a strong message to the port sector that every player must ensure they’re doing all they can to reduce and manage risk.”
The minister has already met with port heads, unions, stevedore representatives and regulators to “impress the need for an immediate shift to a safety-first culture”.
“Our ports play a crucial role in our economy and, as part of our economic recovery, it’s essential they operate efficiently and safely. There has been good process over recent months and I thank the sector for continued engagement.
“Other sectors should also take notice from these events and remind themselves of their responsibilities to ensure the safety of workplaces.”
The Maritime Union of NZ and the Rail and Maritime Transport Union have welcomed the review.
