The object of the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 is to promote the prevention of harm to all people at work, and others in, or in the vicinity of, places of work.

The Act applies to all New Zealand workplaces and places duties on employers, the self-employed, employees, principals and others who are in a position to manage or control hazards.

The emphasis of the law is on the systematic management of health and safety at work. It requires employers and others to maintain safe working environments, and implement sound practice. It recognises that successful health and safety management is best achieved through good faith co-operation in the place of work and, in particular, through the input of those doing the work.

The Department of Labour administers and enforces the HSE Act in most workplaces.

The Maritime New Zealand and Civil Aviation Authority administer and enforce the Act in the maritime and aviation sectors respectively. New Zealand Police works with the Department to enforce the Act in relation to commercial vehicles.

The HSE Act was first passed in 1992, but was reviewed and amended substantially in 2002.

Sources of information on the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992.

Health and Safety in Employment Act and Regulations

• The Health and Safety in Employment Act (and regulations made under it)
• A consolidated version of the Act, showing the 2002 amendments