In New Zealand, the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 sets out the legal requirements for employers and workers to ensure the safety of those in the workplace. One of the key requirements is the use of edge protection systems and scaffolding when working at heights. Both these systems have their unique benefits, and depending on the project, one may be more suitable than the other. Both edge protection systems and scaffolding play an essential role in ensuring the safety of workers in New Zealand.
Edge protection systems are essential safety measures designed to prevent falls from heights in various work environments. They provide a physical barrier to protect workers, equipment, and materials from accidental falls. There are several types of edge protection systems available in the market, including guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems.
By investing in edge protection systems, employers can demonstrate their commitment to workplace safety and employee welfare. A company that prioritizes safety is more likely to attract and retain talented employees who value their well-being. Additionally, companies that prioritize safety are viewed more positively by customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders, enhancing their overall reputation.
Industry associations play an essential role in promoting best practices, providing training and education, and advocating for the safety of workers. SARNZ is an industry association that represents companies and individuals involved in Scaffolding, Access and Rigging and understand the importance of partnering with good, reputable suppliers. This is why we are thrilled to welcome Edge Protection NZ into our whanau of partners, as a Gold partner of the Association.
Director Maryrose Emslie says of the partnership “We are very excited to partner with SARNZ! This has been a long time coming and the partnership will certainly help to create a cohesive and positive relationship between the Scaffolding and Edge protection communities. Working together can only result in the wider scaffolding and construction sector benefiting through embracing innovation to realise new opportunities.”
Partnering with reputable suppliers who adhere to safety standards is crucial when it comes to ensuring the safety of workers. In New Zealand, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) sets out the regulations for the supply and use of height safety equipment. By partnering with a supplier who adheres to these standards, contractors can be confident that the equipment they are using is safe and reliable.
“We are very happy to welcome Maryrose, Karl and the wider Edge Protection NZ team as a partner of SARNZ” says SARNZ CEO, Tina Wieczorek. “The safety of workers when working at heights should be a top priority for contractors in New Zealand and the team from Edge Protection NZ have showed their commitment to this in multiple ways over the past years.”
“By partnering with industry associations such as SARNZ and working with reputable suppliers who adhere to safety standards, contractors can provide a
safe working environment for their employees. The benefits of using both edge protection systems and scaffolding in different projects are clear, but it's important to remember that safety standards and regulations must be followed at all times. By taking a collaborative approach and working with industry associations and good suppliers like our partners, contractors can ensure that the safety of workers is never compromised.”
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Edge Protection New Zealand Ltd has been providing roof and other edge protection systems to the construction sector since 2012.
We are always innovating to provide the most versatile and cost effective systems possible.
