Farm Hazards and the Health and Safety in Employment

Abstract

Farm injury statistics are at an undesirable level in New Zealand.  One supposed mechanism for reducing farm injuries is compliance with the provisions of the Health and Safety in Employment Act (the HSE Act). However, this article argues that the HSE Act is not achieving its objectives in farming, and is creating negative consequences. The article concludes that the HSE Act is not adaptable to a farming environment and accordingly arguments are advanced for reform of the legislation.