The construction industry is one of the highest risk industries in New Zealand. Although Stats NZ injury statistics show a declining trend, the construction industry still had 127 work-related claims per 1,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) employee in 2023 – the third highest rate among all industries.
Site Safe is committed to reducing injuries and death in the construction industry by building the next generation of health and safety leaders. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by providing comprehensive qualifications in health and safety because an educated workforce is a safer one. It’s for this reason, the NZQA-approved Health and Safety in Construction Certificate Programme (Level 3) was created – to empower a qualified, competent workforce of health and safety professionals in New Zealand.
Knowledge is power
Gaining a qualification in health and safety in construction provides a solid foundation of knowledge and skills essential for effectively managing site health and safety. This expertise is crucial for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks to protect workers. Construction is an inherently high-risk industry, but risk can be managed if the correct knowledge is in place in the workforce to understand how.
Building a safe career
A formal health and safety qualification can also significantly improve career prospects by opening doors to advanced positions and higher levels of responsibility. It demonstrates a commitment to professional development and a dedication to maintaining a safe working environment, qualities highly valued by current and future employers.
Endorsed by experience
In addition to enhancing career prospects, having a recognised qualification fosters credibility. This credibility is essential when advocating for safety measures and implementing best practices, gaining the trust and support of others. Effective health and safety management requires the ability to influence, and a recognised qualification can support the delivery of change in organisational policies and procedures, driving continuous improvement in health and safety practices.
Creating a health and safety culture
Health and safety leaders with formal qualifications are also better equipped with the knowledge and skills to contribute to a culture of safety. Participants in Site Safe’s Health and Safety in Construction Certificate learn to promote a proactive approach to risk management, encouraging employees to identify and address potential hazards before they escalate. By fostering a culture of safety, these qualified leaders can help create a more engaged and motivated workforce, where everyone feels responsible for maintaining a safe working environment.
Diversity makes us stronger
The pathway into the health and safety profession is wide and varied. People often come into the profession from other careers, bringing with them previous qualifications and experience. This diversity of backgrounds enriches the field, as it allows for a broad range of perspectives and expertise to help shape health and safety best practice in New Zealand.
How Site Safe can get you there
Site Safe’s Health and Safety in Construction Certificate Programme is designed to advance skills and build health and safety capability in the construction industry.
Participants in the programme earn an NZQA-approved New Zealand Certificate in Workplace Health and Safety Practice (Level 3). To complete the Certificate, a minimum of 40 Site Safe programme credits must be earned over a period of five years, with some cross crediting from other providers permitted.
The certificate programme is suitable for anyone who wants to become a health and safety leader, develop their career and skills in health and safety, gain an in-depth knowledge of workplace health and safety requirements, and proudly stand for health and safety in the New Zealand construction industry. By contributing to the wider construction industry in New Zealand, these individuals play a crucial role in promoting a culture of safety and excellence.
During the programme, participants learn how to communicate health and safety requirements clearly, conduct risk assessments, apply risk management processes and understand legislative requirements.
Learner pathways
Site Safe offers a recommended pathway for different roles, so provides the flexibility to build a custom learning journey tailored to individual needs. This personalised approach ensures that learners can achieve their specific career goals and develop the skills most relevant to their roles.
Learner pathways available include the Worker/Leading Hand/Foreman Pathway, which covers essential topics such as Mental Health First Aid in Construction, Safety Harness Systems, Advanced Safety Harness Systems, Site-Specific Safety Planning, Health and Safety Representative, and Risk Management.
The Supervisor Pathway is another option, designed for those looking to take on leadership roles in health and safety. This pathway provides the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage and supervise health and safety practices in the workplace, ensuring that safety is always a top priority.
Building the next generation of health and safety leaders requires a comprehensive approach that includes formal qualifications, practical experience, and ongoing professional development. Site Safe’s Health and Safety in Construction Programme leading to a New Zealand Certificate in Workplace Health and Safety Practice (Level 3) offers learners valuable pathways to develop their skills and advance their careers in this vital field.
