Source: Worksafe New Zealand
As the days grow longer, spring is the perfect time for farmers to take stock—not just of their livestock and crops, but of their health and safety practices too.
This season, WorkSafe is working with businesses across New Zealand’s sheep, beef, and dairy sectors to strengthen understanding of health and safety responsibilities and support safer farming environments.
By connecting with key stakeholder groups, WorkSafe aims to ensure that farm owners and operators are well-equipped to manage risks and protect their teams.
Between October and December 2025, WorkSafe inspectors will carry out around 1,000 planned visits to farms nationwide. These visits will focus on high-risk areas such as vehicles and heavy machinery, and hazardous substances.
The information gathered during these visits will help WorkSafe build a clearer picture of safety practices across different regions and farming sub-sectors. These insights will be shared back with the industry to highlight what’s working well and where additional support or resources may be needed.
We recognise that it might be a busy time for some farmers. Owners and operators will be contacted in advance to book a time that suits for a look at what’s working well and any improvements to consider. “Our focus is primarily on engagement, and we encourage farmers to make the most of the opportunity to ask our staff questions and get a worthwhile indication of how they are measuring up,” says Carl Baker, WorkSafe Area Manager.
Where health and safety risks are identified, enforcement activity might be required, such as a directive letter or improvement notice which will advise the farmers what improvements they must make. The Inspector will work with the business to assist and support them to meet their health and safety responsibilities.
Agriculture remains one of New Zealand’s most dangerous industries. In 2024, it was the deadliest sector, with vehicle crashes and machinery incidents among the leading causes of serious injuries and fatalities.
These spring assessments are part of WorkSafe’s ongoing priority focus on agriculture—helping ensure that every farm worker gets home safe at the end of the day.
Guidance to support farmers can be found on our website including specific information on:
