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HSWA Compliance

HSWA Context

Earthquakes are recognised by WorkSafe NZ as a workplace hazard. “Objects within workplaces such as bookcases, fridges or other heavy furniture remain the responsibility of tenants and occupants. Anchoring such objects to sturdy building elements to ensure they cannot move or fall on people during an earthquake is a common way of addressing these risks. Failure to identify and properly manage these types of risks is a breach of HSWAWorkSafe June 2018

Services aligned with HSWA defined risk management process.

HSWA Risk management process  Aligned service offer
Duty to identify hazards Earthquake Hazard Assessment
Implement control measures Install Seismic Restraints
Duty to provide training Staff Safety Training
Duty to review control measures Annual Seismic WOF Audit
Duty to maintain effective control measures Service Level Agreement services

DIY Case study

Significant New Zealand earthquakes demonstrated the effectiveness of professionally fitted restraints and highlighted deficiencies in many DIY restraint installations. 

DIY Liability issues?

Consider the following before entrusting seismic restraint installation to a handyman, builder or removal company:

  • Do they provide a detailed hazard assessment?
  • Does their assessment include recommendations to eliminate or isolate hazards?
  • Does proposed work meet NZ Standard - 4014 "Seismic restraint for building contents" ?
  • Do they understand the limitations of various types of restraints?
  • Is the hardware rated for seismic bracing?
  • What quality assurance protocols do they have in place?
  • Do they have a hazard management plan for hazards they introduce into your workplace?
  • Do they have public liability insurance to cover accidental damage to your property?
  • Are they members of any professional organisations?
  • Do they provide documentation to help you demonstrate due diligence for HSWA purposes?
  • Who owns the liability under HSWA if a substandard installation causes death or injury?

Cost of failure

When the cost of failure could be measured in lives, is el-cheapo really the way to go? 

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DIY death trap


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