Today, 28 April 2025 is World Day for Health & Safety at Work.
This day is observed annually and promotes the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases globally.
It is also intended to raise awareness about the importance of creating safe workplaces, which can help reduce the number of work-related deaths and injuries.
World Day for Health & Safety at Work was first observed by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 2003.
“Each of us is responsible for stopping deaths and injuries on the job,” the United Nations said in a statement.
“Workplaces and employers are responsible for ensuring that the working environment is safe and healthy.
“Employees are responsible for working safely, to protect themselves and not to endanger others, to know their rights and to participate in the implementation of preventive measures.”
The Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA) is New Zealand’s primary workplace safety legislation. It sets a legal framework ensuring the protection of all workers, whether in bustling factories or quiet home offices.
Te Pūkenga’s Te Oranga me te Haumaru I Wellbeing and Safety Policy (Nov, 2024) outlines a collective commitment to the wellbeing and safety of kaimahi, ākonga, visitors (manuhiri), learning, social and living places, and to people affected by our activities across all business divisions.
“I recognise the significant role and duty I have in us achieving our wellbeing and safety objectives. Nothing is more important to me than people and that means I am committed to our organisation having work, learning, social and living environments that are safe and healthy, mentally satisfying and rewarding, and enable our people to thrive,” says Te Pūkenga Chief Executive, Gus Gilmore.
Acting Chair, Sue McCormack adds: “As the governing body of our organisation, Te Pūkenga Council is accountable for the wellbeing and safety of all members of our Te Pūkenga community: kaimahi (workers), ākonga (learners), visitors and people affected by our work, learning, social and living Activities.”
Office environments may seem low-risk compared to construction sites or factories, but they come with their own set of health and safety challenges.
Some Common Office Hazards (source: Advanced Safety NZ):
- Ergonomic Issues: Poor workstation design leading to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
- Slips, Trips, and Falls: Cluttered walkways or spilled liquids can cause accidents.
- Electrical Hazards: Overloaded power sockets or faulty equipment.
- Mental Health Risks: Stress, burnout, and workplace bullying.
- Fire Safety Concerns: Blocked exits or inadequate fire suppression systems.