ScreenSafe leads health and safety in NZ screen sector

31 March 2016

ScreenSafe leads health and safety in New Zealand screen sector

New Zealand’s screen sector has been quick off the mark to interpret the new health and safety legislative regime with the launch of ScreenSafe’s website on 31 March.

ScreenSafe is an initiative of the NZ Techos’ Guild and the website marks the first stage of a multi-year, sector-wide health and safety programme to support safe workplaces for all screen sector participants and create a culture where everyone is empowered to contribute to safe work practices.

The initiative has received strong support from the NZ screen sector, with funding from the New Zealand Film Commission, NZ On Air, SPADA, industry guilds and organisations.

From 31 March, ScreenSafe’s website, www.ScreenSafe.co.nz, will house the new Health and Safety Guidelines, updated from the former Code of Practice to meet the requirements of the Health and Safety Work Act 2015, which comes into effect on 4 April.

ScreenSafe Chair David Strong said they had worked with expert advice from legal firm Minter Ellison Rudd Watts and Worksafe NZ to develop the first sections of the new Guidelines.

“It’s well supported by a range of professional groups. WorkSafe were impressed that the screen sector is ahead of the game in developing the Guidelines, which are tailored to different roles on a production,” said Mr Strong.

Mr Strong said with the new Act’s focus on managing risk and increasing responsibilities, the core message for the sector was that everyone is now responsible.

“It’s up to everyone, no matter the scale of production, from those running the show to those working on it, to support a safe and healthy production. With the launch of the website, we will have one central and free location for everyone to learn and understand our obligations under the Act.”

Mr Strong said during April ScreenSafe will hold presentations around the country to discuss the new Act and the role of ScreenSafe, with representatives from Minters Ellison Rudd Watts and the NZ Film Commission.

“We’ll be holding presentations in Wellington, Auckland and Queenstown in April, to provide clarity on the new legislation and answer questions as best we can. The bottom line is that we want what everyone wants, that the New Zealand screen sector is a safe, healthy and successful industry for all of us.”

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