Spotlight on health and safety in agribusiness

Waikato farming business leaders meet in Te Awamutu next week for an interactive session on driving effective health and safety practices.

The Waikato branch of the Institute of Directors (IoD) has worked with Progressive Agri to offer the health and safety session, and branch chairman, Margaret Devlin, said it will ensure owners and directors of farming businesses better understand their obligations and the practical implications of health and safety.

"Not only is the Waikato at the heart of agricultural production, but our region also has one of the highest numbers of rural communities in New Zealand. Running this presentation in Te Awamutu, along with further outreach into the broader Waikato community, underpins our commitment to upskill and support our members across the wider Waikato region. It puts the IoD in a better position to service our members effectively," said Devlin.

"Health and safety is also currently top of mind in boardrooms across New Zealand. We already know that reforms of the country’s health and safety system will come into force next year, so we’re working to get agribusinesses in the Waikato ahead in proactively improving the performance of health and safety in the workplace and promoting a positive health and safety culture," she said.

Melissa Vining will discuss what practical steps farmers must take to get their farm in health and safety working order. She will also talk through what their obligations are as farm owners and directors.

Janet Copeland will present the proposed health and safety law changes and legal considerations surrounding these changes, including liability for principals and contractors, key legal considerations and impending legislative changes including director liabilities.

"The end goal is enable members to develop a strong health and safety management plan for their farming business that ensures their workers feel safe, understand and acknowledge the risks in their workplace, and can openly discuss what other steps the business can take to help keep them safe," said Devlin.

The lunch session takes place at Waipa Workingmen's Club in Te Awamutu on Wednesday 22 October.

The regional based function is in addition to the Waikato branch of the IoD’s Hamilton-based breakfast and lunch functions.