HSWA what? Practical tips for tackling HSWA 2015 for businesses

Part of a package of reforms aimed at reducing the high rate of workplace injury and death in New Zealand by 25% by 2020, the new legislation introduces several fresh new concepts based on proportionality and what it is reasonable for a business to control.
The Act also brings fundamental change to the way work is managed and executed, creating a shift from simple hazard spotting to managing critical operational risks, and unequivocally shifting the focus of workplace risk management from the physical workplace itself, to how work is done, i.e. the processes. Ensuring the legislation is properly implemented is now even more crucial with increased penalties for non-compliance, and personal liability for directors of companies which fail to demonstrate effective management of risks. A rigorous and systematic approach is required for employers to protect both their employees, and their businesses.
WorkSafe NZ has outlined the characteristics of safe, compliant work practices here. They include:
The new legislation places an emphasis on documentation, engagement and review, as well as clear accountability and responsibilities. Here are some aggregated tips:
BPM, or Business Process Management is a management discipline which can help employers and leadership teams organize their operational and business processes into a cohesive, understandable whole, supporting transparency and communication.
With the new emphasis on how work is done, along with the requirements that the methods for managing risks be documented, BPM solutions offer many advantages for being proactive and staying compliant. The Signavio Process Editor the BPM tool allows health and safety Officers to work collaboratively with both managers and workers to document how work is being done, quickly receive feedback from the people undertaking the work as to accuracy and feasibility, and publish so everyone involved has access to information on how to work safely.
Like to learn more? contact us here, or give it a try free for 30 days! We’d love to discuss how BPM can help your business be more productive, and more compliant.