Occupational health and safety legislation: possibilities for future development

Abstract

That there should be much greater attention to the problem of occupational health and safety may be demonstrated by the out-dated and fragnented legislation and its administration now current in New Zealand, notwithstanding recent legislative changes. It is suggested that there are many factors that should be considered in developing a new course of action and recent approaches in some other countries, notably Britain and Canada are examined for their relevance to New Zealand's future needs. Among the factors considered are scientific, economic, ethical and political aspects. Probably the greatest need lies in the necessity of paying a lot more attention to the health effects of the working environment. Also recommended is a well-informed approach to self-regulation which involves all in the workplace and, as a consequence, calls for a lot more training and education. Joint training for all members of management-labour committees is regarded as essential. A tripartite authority is proposed to take over the present role of government departments.