Building a Safer Workplace Through Proper Training and Licensing

Workplace safety in New Zealand depends on ensuring workers have the correct training, licenses, and endorsements to perform their roles safely. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), businesses must provide training and supervision to ensure workers are competent and can carry out tasks without risk to themselves or others. Compliance with WorkSafe guidance, AS/NZS standards, NZTA requirements, and NZQA unit standards is essential for maintaining a safe and compliant workplace.

Many roles require specific licenses and endorsements. Operators of forklifts, excavators, and heavy vehicles must meet the required licensing requirements. Electrical workers must hold current practicing licenses issued by the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB), and high-risk work such as asbestos removal or hazardous substances handling requires WorkSafe-approved certifications. Businesses must also ensure that workers handling machinery, working at heights, or entering confined spaces are adequately trained to nationally recognised standards through NZQA-accredited courses.

Internal training plays a crucial role in reinforcing safe work practices, emergency procedures, and hazard management specific to each workplace. While formal NZQA training ensures workers meet national competency requirements, in-house training helps adapt these skills to company-specific environments and risks. Regular internal training sessions ensure workers comply with evolving safety standards and industry practices.

Lakes Safety is committed to helping businesses identify the right training solutions. We can provide guidance on both internal training requirements and NZQA unit standard-based courses to ensure compliance. Additionally, we can recommend trusted local training providers such as Workplace Safety Solutions for forklift certification, license endorsements, and commercial driver training (https://workplacesafetysolutions.co.nz/), ensuring your workforce is trained to the highest standards.

Investing in the correct training and licensing not only meets legal obligations but also protects workers and enhances overall safety culture. Contact Lakes Safety today to discuss your training needs and ensure your team is fully qualified and compliant.