Understanding the 2015 Health and Safety at Work Act in New Zealand
The 2015 Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA) is New Zealand’s primary legislation for workplace health and safety. Introduced in response to the Pike River Mine tragedy, this Act marked a significant shift in how health and safety is managed across businesses. It places greater responsibility on employers, business leaders, and workers to ensure everyone gets home safe and healthy.
If you’re serious about protecting your people and meeting legal obligations, understanding the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 is essential.
What Is the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015?
The Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 replaced the 1992 Act and introduced a stronger framework for preventing workplace harm. It adopts a proactive approach to managing risks rather than reacting after incidents occur.
The Act emphasises:
The duty of care by Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU)
Clear responsibilities across roles—from directors to workers
Risk management as a continuous obligation
Worker participation in health and safety decisions
This Act aligns with international best practices and provides a comprehensive foundation for building a safety-first culture.
Key Features of the HSWA
Whether you call it the Health & Safety at Work Act 2015, Health and Safety Act 2015, or Workplace Health and Safety Act 2015, the focus remains the same: keeping people safe.
Here are some core elements:
Primary Duty of Care: PCBUs must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of workers.
Due Diligence for Officers: Company directors must understand health and safety matters and ensure appropriate resources and processes are in place.
Worker Engagement: Businesses must actively engage with workers about health and safety matters.
Risk Management: Businesses must identify and manage risks rather than rely on prescriptive measures.
Why Compliance Matters
Failure to comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act can lead to significant penalties—including fines and imprisonment. More importantly, non-compliance puts lives at risk.
By aligning your systems with the Act, you not only meet legal requirements but also create a safer, more productive environment.
Use the Best Health and Safety Software in New Zealand
Staying compliant with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 is easier with the right tools. At Assura, we provide the best health and safety software in New Zealand, designed to support your obligations under the HSWA and beyond.
Our platform enables you to:
Identify and manage hazards
Track training, audits, and incidents
Generate reports aligned with the HSW Act
Store and share policies and procedures
Empower staff with mobile reporting tools
Whether you’re managing compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act HSWA, or responding to evolving health and safety standards, Assura is built for New Zealand businesses like yours.
HSWA vs. International Legislation
Many people ask how the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 in New Zealand compares to the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (UK). While both laws share core principles, the New Zealand version reflects lessons learned from local events and focuses on shared responsibility between PCBUs, workers, and officers.
Why Choose Assura?
Assura isn’t just another software provider. We’re New Zealand-based, and we understand local business needs and legislative requirements. With our health and safety software, you can ensure you’re not only compliant but also building a future-focused safety culture.
Keen to know more? Contact us directly on 021 635 237.
