SAFETY Archives - HazardCo NZ

The hidden danger on-site: Silica dust

Construction sites come with plenty of obvious hazards but some of the most dangerous ones are the ones you can’t see. One of those hidden risks is respirable crystalline silica dust (RCS).

If you’re cutting, grinding, sanding, or polishing materials like concrete, stone, brick, or mortar, there’s a good chance you’re creating RCS dust. And while it might not look like much, breathing it in can cause serious, long-term health problems.

Why silica dust is dangerous

When silica dust gets into your lungs, it can cause a disease called Accelerated Silicosis. This is a fast-acting, life-threatening condition that scars the lungs and makes it harder to breathe over time. The tricky part? You might not even notice symptoms until the damage is already done.

That’s why it’s so important to understand the risk and take simple steps to control it.

How to reduce the risk on-site

WorkSafe New Zealand recommends several ways to reduce exposure and keep your crew safe:

Use safer materials: Whenever possible, choose materials with a lower silica content.
Isolate dusty work: Keep dusty work away from others using barriers or enclosed equipment like CNC machines.
Use the right gear: Fit your tools with dust collectors that have H-class HEPA filters.
Add water: Wet cutting helps stop dust from becoming airborne in the first place where possible.
Clean up the right way: Avoid dry sweeping. Use low-pressure water, wet wipes, or a HEPA-filtered vacuum to clean instead.
Wear proper PPE: Make sure respirators are fit-tested and cleaned after each use. Disposable coveralls or other protective clothing can also help stop dust from going home with you.
Monitor exposure: Anyone exposed to silica dust should have regular health checks to pick up early signs of damage.

Keep your crew in the know

Most people who develop silicosis didn’t realise they were at risk. That’s why it’s vital to talk about RCS, train your team, and make sure everyone knows how to stay safe.

At the end of the day, the goal is simple: everyone goes home safe and healthy.

Want to learn more about managing silica dust on-site? Get in touch with our friendly team at HazardCo today.We’re here to help you keep health and safety simple.

Slips, trips, and falls, don’t let them take you down!

Slips and trips might seem harmless, but on-site, they’re one of the biggest causes of injuries. A bit of ground clutter, a wet floor, or poor lighting is all it takes to put someone out of action.

Here’s the breakdown:

Slip – wet or icy surfaces are usually to blame
Trip – often from tools, cords, or gear left lying around
Fall – when someone suddenly loses balance

What’s your role?
Businesses must make sure slip and trip hazards are spotted early and dealt with properly. That means checking the site, managing risks, and keeping controls up to scratch.

How to tackle the risks

Eliminate – plan the site layout to avoid sudden changes in floor levels
Substitute – install slip-resistant surfaces where you can
Isolate – block off high-risk areas and use clear signage
Engineer – treat floors, improve lighting, and sort drainage
Admin controls – training, cleaning checklists, and good supervision
PPE – slip-resistant footwear to protect the team

Practical ways to reduce the risk

Reducing slips, trips, and falls starts with simple, practical steps that everyone on site can take.

Good housekeeping – Keep walkways clear, remove waste quickly, and store gear in the right place.
Floor checks – Fix uneven ground, repair holes, and mop up spills immediately.
Lighting – Brighten up darker areas like stairways and access points.
Weather watch – Use grit, mats, or drainage to deal with rain, ice, or mud.
Signs and barriers – Put up clear signs when cleaning, or block access to unsafe areas.
Footwear – Make sure workers have slip-resistant boots suited to the conditions.
Training – Teach your crew to spot hazards, tidy as they go, and report issues straight away.
Regular reviews – Walk the site daily and use checklists so nothing gets missed.”

Good housekeeping makes all the difference. The HazardCo App has handy checklists to keep your site tidy and safe.

Don’t wait for a near miss to remind you. Start managing slips and trips today and if you need a hand, the HazardCo team is only a call away.

Got lone workers on your team? Here’s what you need to know

If someone on your team is working by themselves without other people around and without direct supervision, they’re likely considered a lone worker. Whether it’s a regular thing or just every now and then, it’s your job to make sure they’re safe and supported.

Who counts as a lone worker?

It’s not just remote bush jobs. Lone workers might be team members who:

Travel solo for work
Cover big distances
Work in a remote or isolated spot
Work by themselves in a separate area on a larger site
Do night shifts or work odd hours

If this sounds like anyone on your team, there are a few key things you need to think about:

Keep security front of mind

Lone workers may face more risks, both to their own safety and the gear or materials they’re using. You need to make sure they’re prepared and protected. Vulnerable workers like apprentices and inexperienced workers shouldn’t be working alone.

Don’t let them feel isolated

Working solo can be lonely. No banter. No team catch-ups. It takes a toll.
Stay connected with regular check-ins like phone calls, group chats, or video calls. It doesn’t need to be fancy, just make it consistent. A quick “How’s your day going?” can go a long way.

Don’t leave them out of the loop

Just because someone’s working away from the team doesn’t mean they should miss out on training, updates, or important info. Keep the comms flowing so everyone’s in the know – no matter where they are.

Set them up with the right gear

Make sure lone workers have the tools and tech to get the job done safely and stay connected. That includes:

A phone or two-way radio
GPS or location tracking if they’re in an isolated area
The HazardCo App – for easy hazard reporting and support
PPE that suits the job
A fully stocked first aid kit (and training on how to give first aid)
A fire extinguisher that’s been checked in the last 12 months

Try a buddy system

Simple, but it works. Pair your lone workers with a buddy – someone they can check in with daily. Share location, talk through the day’s work, and have a bit of a yarn. It keeps morale up and helps you respond faster if something’s not right.

Have a plan for emergencies

Use the Emergency Plan template in your HazardCo Hub to create a clear plan for how to get help fast if something goes wrong.
Make sure your team knows what the plan is and how it works. Test it out, and keep emergency contact info up to date.

At the end of the day, look out for your lone workers the same way you would if they were right there beside you. A bit of planning and a good dose of communication makes a big difference. Put some restrictions, like no High Risk Work will be done by lone workers.

Need help?
If you’re a HazardCo member, the Advisory Team is just a tap away in the app. We’re here to keep things simple and help you keep your team safe, wherever they’re working.

Take the Hassle Out of Toolbox Meetings

Toolbox meetings don’t need to be a paperwork mission. With the HazardCo App, you can run quick, focused chats straight from your phone – No prep, no printing, no hassle.

The Toolbox Meeting feature guides you through what to cover, step by step, so you can hold the meeting anywhere on-site and tick off all the right boxes as you go. It’s all recorded in the app, and a full report lands in your Hub, ready to download or share with the team.

How often should we have a Toolbox meeting?

Daily prestart meetings: Kick off each shift with a short chat on that day’s tasks and hazards. These short meetings help keep safety front-of-mind and ensure everyone is aligned before work begins
Weekly toolbox meetings: Hold more in-depth sessions at least once a week to discuss recent incidents, site safety issues, changes to plans or regulations, new equipment or procedures, and upcoming high-risk work
Ad hoc meetings: Jump in when new risks pop up: weather shifts, incidents, or handle issues that can’t wait.

Keeping toolbox meetings regular boosts safety in three big ways: they keep safety top of mind with frequent check-ins, help build a strong culture where everyone’s looking out for each other, and give you the chance to spot and fix hazards before they turn into incidents.

What to cover in a Toolbox meeting:

Stuck for ideas on what to talk about? Here’s some great starting points:

Today’s tasks and risks
Weather conditions
PPE requirements
Recent incidents or near misses
Any changes on-site
Questions from the team

Keep your toolbox meetings interactive by getting the crew involved, it makes a big difference. Ask for feedback at the end of each chat to see what’s working (and what’s not). Encourage the team to speak up about any issues they’ve spotted on-site. When everyone has a voice, safety becomes a team effort, not just another box to tick.

Cool tip to save you time: Use your phone’s voice-to-text tool to speak your notes out loud (just look for the little mic on your keyboard). You can even snap a quick photo to record who was there.

Working solo? You can still use the app toolbox feature to log safety convos with other tradies or subbies – Every chat counts.

And remember, the Toolbox Meeting feature isn’t just for toolboxes. Use it for pre-starts, safety meetings, or committee catch-ups too.

Keeping your site safe starts with good conversations – and with HazardCo in your hands, they’re easier than ever.

Working with heavy machinery and managing traffic on-site can be risky. But with the right checks and planning, we can keep everyone safe.

Daily machinery checks

Before starting work each day, make sure your equipment is ready to go:

Visual checks (before starting the machine):

Check fluid and oil levels; look for leaks.
Ensure tyres are free from damage and in good condition.
Confirm safety mechanisms are in place and working.
Make sure warning signs are visible and readable.
Inspect attachments, clips, and pins for damage.
Look over hydraulics for any issues.

Stationary function test (with the machine on):

Test the horn and reversing alarm.
Check that lights, pedals, and controls work properly.
Move the bucket and arms to ensure they operate smoothly.

Moving function test:

Test the steering.
Ensure brakes are functioning correctly.

Using your manufacturer’s checklist or the HazardCo Heavy Machinery Prestart checklist can help you cover all these points.

Managing site traffic

Keeping vehicles and people safe on-site requires a solid traffic management plan. Here’s what to consider:

Traffic direction: Plan routes for vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Delivery areas: Set up clear zones and schedules for loading and unloading.
Site layout: Define speed limits, traffic flow, and place barriers or fences where needed.
Safe practices: Establish procedures for loading, unloading, turning, and reversing.
Site restrictions: Be aware of noise levels and traffic volume.
Unattended sites: Plan how excavations are managed when no one is around.
Emergency procedures: Have clear steps in place for emergencies.

Discuss this plan during site inductions so everyone knows the rules and expectations.

Know your limits: Zone of influence

Heavy machinery can affect the stability of excavations if operated too close. Keep all heavy vehicles, materials, and spoil at least one meter outside the zone of influence unless specific designs support closer operations.

Preventing tip-overs

Uneven ground can cause machinery to tip over, leading to serious injuries. To prevent this:

Planning: Supervisors and operators should assess the area before work begins.
Risk assessment: Operators should evaluate risks before starting each job.
Safe routes: Choose the safest paths for moving machinery.
Digging practices: Never dig underneath an excavator.
Distance: Work at a safe distance from excavation edges.
Procedures: Have standard operating procedures in place.
Design: Ensure work areas are designed to control hazards.
Safety features: Equip cabs with roll-over and fall-over protection; operators should wear seat belts and keep doors closed.
Exits: Ensure there are always two exits from the excavator.

If you would like more information head over to our website or to chat with one of our friendly Advisory team please give us a call on 0800 555 339.

Operating Machinery

Working with heavy machinery can be dangerous. Incorrect use or untrained operators can lead to serious injuries or worse.

Training and Supervision

Machinery should only be used by workers who are:

Trained and competent with the equipment they’re operating
Supervised, especially if they’re new or unfamiliar with the task
Provided with clear instructions, risk assessments and task analysis

Regularly assess operator competency through refresher training, observations and feedback. Keep training records and verify workers have the appropriate licenses.

Pre-Start Check – A quick routine that makes a big difference

Before using any machinery, complete a daily prestart check. These checks must be done by a trained and competent person.

Visual checks (before turning the machine on):

Fluid and oil levels are good, and there are no leaks
Battery is clean, charged and secured
All safety guards and features are in place and undamaged
Warning signs are in place and easy to read
All clips, pins, and attachments are secure and not worn or damaged
Hydraulic hoses are in good condition and lubricated

Stationary test (machine is on but not moving):

Horn, reversing alarm and lights are working
Pedals, and control panel are working properly
Bucket and arms fully extend, retract and tilt smoothly

Moving test (short drive):

Steering is responsive
Brakes function correctly

Use the manufacturer’s pre-start checklist, the HazardCo Heavy Machinery Prestart Checklist or the HazardCo App Plant/Machinery Pre-start tool to guide your checks. Making sure to keep a record of your completed checks.

Quick Hitches, Safety Locks, and Exclusion Zones – Take the time to get it right

Quick hitches help you swap attachments fast – but can be dangerous if not properly secured.

Before operation:

Confirm the attachment is the right fit and in good condition.
Visually check all locking pins and safety devices are installed correctly.
Set and mark exclusion zones and communicate these to all workers on-site

All quick hitches must clearly show:

Model and serial number
Manufacturer’s name
Weight and max rated capacity
Safe lifting capacity for each lifting point

Store spare locking pins with the machine, and only use attachments that match the correct pin size.

Cover any machinery risks and controls in your task analysis and share it with everyone on-site.

Don’t cut corners on safety

Missing a step like skipping a daily check or rushing an attachment change can have serious consequences.

Taking five minutes to do it right can prevent serious injuries and keep your sire running safely.

If you have any questions, get in touch with the HazardCo Team today

Digging into the ground might seem straightforward, but excavation work is actually one of the most dangerous parts of construction. That’s why it’s important to plan ahead and put the right safety measures in place to keep everyone safe on site.

Start with a solid plan

Before you get started, take time to plan things out. Planning means identifying the hazards, assessing the risks, and deciding suitable controls – with input from the team. Make sure an emergency plan is in place in case something goes wrong. Every site is different, so take its unique features into account when planning.

Watch out for these common excavation risks:

Securing the area
Keep excavations securely fenced off with sturdy barriers that won’t give way if someone leans or falls against them. If you’re not actively working in or near the trench, cover it up or backfill it as soon as possible.
Falls from height
If there’s a chance someone could fall into the excavation, that’s considered working at height. Make sure you’ve got the right safety controls in place such as edge protection, guardrails or barriers. Click here to see guidance on how to reduce fall risks.
Ground collapse
This is one of the biggest dangers. Don’t assume the ground will stay stable. Use shoring, shielding, benching, or battering appropriate to the soil type and excavation depth to prevent it from caving in. Make sure a competent person inspects the excavation daily and after any event that could affect stability e.g. heavy rain.
Safe ways in and out
Make sure workers have safe access and egress at all times. Keep ladders, ramps, stairs in good condition and ensure the bottom of the excavation is clear to allow a quick and easy exit if needed.
Underground and overhead services
Always check for underground and overhead services before you dig. Use tools like beforeudig to locate underground services. Hidden services if struck can cause serious injury or worse.
Water in the trench
Never let workers operate in a trench that has water pooling in it unless you’ve got the right safety controls in place such as dewatering methods, and a competent person has checked the excavation stability
Do you need to notify WorkSafe?
Some excavation work must be notified to WorkSafe NZ before you begin. If that’s the case, fill out the Particular Hazardous Work notification form at least 24 hours before work begins.

Keeping yourself and your team safe is what matters most. Make sure you’re clear on your responsibilities when it comes to managing excavation risks.

Need a hand? The HazardCo App has helpful resources for site reviews and risk controls. And if you’ve got questions or need support, just reach out to the HazardCo team – we’re here to help.

Dust is a common hazard in the construction industry, especially during demolition or refurbishment. When buildings are demolished they can release materials that create hazardous dust (airborne contaminants) which can be hazardous to workers’ health. Understanding the risks will help you to identify how best to manage the risks.

Why is dust dangerous?

Exposure to hazardous dust can lead to serious health conditions, including:

Silicosis – A lung disease caused by inhaling fine silica dust, common in concrete, brick, and stone materials.
Lung Cancer – Prolonged exposure to certain airborne contaminants increases the risk.
Asthma & COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) – Inhaling dust particles can trigger or worsen respiratory conditions.
Skin & Eye Irritations – Dust exposure can cause infections and long-term discomfort.

Health and exposure monitoring
As a business, you have a duty to monitor your workers’ health when they’re exposed to dust and other hazardous materials. Regular health monitoring helps identify early signs of illness and ensures that the dust control measures in place are working effectively.

Health monitoring process should include:

collection of workers’ demographic, medical and occupational histories
records of workers’ exposure
respiratory questionnaire and function tests
in some cases, chest x-ray or other radiological procedure

It is important that you get your worker’s consent to monitor their health and engage them in this process.

Health monitoring should be carried out by a trained and competent person. For more information or if you’d like to organise health monitoring for your business contact our partner Habit Health.

How to Control dust exposure on-site
Controls to minimise the exposure to dust in the workplace could include:

on-tool dust extraction systems – attach vacuum extraction directly to power tools
water suppression – dampen materials to prevent dust from becoming airborne
personal protective equipment (PPE) – ensure workers wear correctly fitted masks and protective gear

Making sure your workers have the right tools and information to complete the job safely includes training and understanding the risks involved, what to do if anything should go wrong, as well as the correct use, storage, and maintenance of PPE.

Other controls to consider are:

limiting worker exposure – keep unnecessary personnel away from dusty areas
task rotation – reduce the time any one worker spends in high-dust zones
Dust containment – using sheeting or temporary screens to enclose the work to stop dust from escaping

Complete a Task Analysis for your demolition work through the HazardCo APP. This helps assess the risks and plan safe work processes. Involve your team so everyone can contribute and understand the plan.

Our team of health and safety experts are just a call away if you have any questions or would like to discuss further.

The holiday season is over and now it’s time to get back into the swing of things. Coming back to work and reopening your site is just as important as shutting it down. The New Year is the perfect opportunity to refocus and set the tone for the year ahead. Coming back to work after a couple of weeks off can give some people a serious case of Mondayitis, so consider taking the following steps on the first day back:

Hold a kick-off Toolbox meeting to re-brief the team

Rather than diving straight into work, start with a kick-off toolbox talk. This is an essential step to rebrief your team on the SSSP (Site-Specific Safety Plan) and emergency procedures. Use this time to check that all workers are fit for work and mentally prepared after the break.

Complete a Site Review to identify any new hazards

Perform a site review to identify any new hazards or potential risks that may have emerged during the downtime. Check that fences are still secure and containers are locked.

Inspect Structures, Scaffolding, and Excavations

After a break, it’s crucial to ensure all structures and scaffolds are intact. Inspect scaffolds, check excavations, and assess other infrastructure that may have been affected by weather conditions during your time off. Ensure everything is in working order before resuming normal operations.

Check Tools, Equipment, and Mobile Plant

Before use, inspect all tools and equipment to confirm they are in good condition. It’s also vital to pre-start mobile plant to ensure it’s functioning correctly.

Start Slow: Prioritise a Safe and Smooth Transition

Consider a soft start to your operations. Allow your team the time to properly check their work areas, inspect equipment, and remind everyone that safety is the number one priority. This includes keeping in mind workers don’t overheat after spending the last couple of weeks in air conditioning, relaxing, and indulging. They may not be acclimatised to working in the heat.

Manage the Risks of Working in Hot Conditions

As the weather heats up, so can risk on-site. Make sure that workers are provided with adequate protection from working in the heat so that they can do their work safely and comfortably. Here are some steps to help mitigate these risks:

- - Provide Adequate Shade and Shelter: Set up shade tents or additional undercover areas if working outdoors. Ensure that windows are open, or fans are in use in indoor workspaces.
  - Ensure Hydration and Protection from the Sun: Workers should have constant access to drinking water, sunscreen, and wear appropriate PPE like lightweight clothing, sunglasses, and sun-protective hats.
  - Monitor Heat-Related Illness: Not everyone reacts to heat the same way. Be aware of the symptoms of heat-related illness such as dizziness, nausea, pale skin, rapid breathing, heat cramps, and dehydration. If a worker shows signs of heat illness, provide first aid and seek medical attention if necessary.

Know When to Stop Work in Extreme Heat

If temperatures are dangerously high, it’s sometimes best to stop work until conditions improve. Consider shifting physical tasks to machinery for tasks such as lifting or digging, reducing the exposure to extreme heat.

Support and Look Out for One Another

Safety is a shared responsibility. Encourage your team to keep an eye on each other and to report any symptoms of heat stress. Prevention is key, but swift action can prevent more severe conditions from developing. For the early stages of heat-related illness, first aid can often be effective, but you should always seek medical assistance if in doubt, or if the person’s symptoms are severe. Symptoms to look out for are:

- - Dizziness and feeling weak
  - Vomiting and nausea
  - Pale, cool and clammy skin
  - Rapid breathing and shortness of breath
  - Heat cramps resulting from heavy sweating without replacing salt and electrolytes
  - Dehydration from increased sweating and workers not drinking enough water

Be prepared this summer and make sure to keep the health, safety, and well-being of workers front of mind. Refer to the below resources for more information:

If you have any questions you can contact our Advisory Team on 0800 555 339.

The holiday season is almost upon us and we’re all eager to have a bit of a rest, recharge, and spend quality time with our families. As we wind up 2024, it’s a demanding time as we try to complete jobs before the holiday shutdown. This can make it tempting to take shortcuts, however, it can also lead to an increase in incidents, with the last two months of the year seeing a spike in workplace incidents.

Common factors can include time pressure, working in the heat, and fatigue. It’s important to keep the health, safety, and well-being of workers front of mind.

It’s necessary to start preparing for the holiday shutdown so you don’t have any interruptions during your break or come to a nasty surprise on your first day back.

Unsecured areas could be hazardous to members of the public, especially children. Children are unaware of the dangers so keeping them out and away from harm is key.

Being safe and secure is more than just locking the gates. Ask yourself the following questions:

Are dangerous areas fenced off from the public and the boundary secure?
Make sure the area is securely fenced and all entrances are locked. Ensure your fencing is a sufficient height, at least 2m.
Is clear signage present to warn people of danger?
Make sure your Hazard Board is up to date listing the current hazards and your contact details are clearly visible in case something does pop up you can be contacted quickly. If you need to order a Project for your job this can be done through the HazardCo HUB
Have steps been taken to prevent any unauthorised access, e.g. are all ladders removed or their rungs boarded so they can’t be used?
Remove any temptation to access hazardous areas. Where practical, remove all ladders, equipment and machinery from the site, including scaffolding and excavation ladders, or block access.
Are excavations and openings securely covered, fenced off, or backfilled?
Cover and fence off any excavations to prevent potential falls. Where practical backfilling excavations is recommended.
Is all plant immobilised to prevent unauthorised use?
If you are unable to remove your vehicles or plant from the area, make sure it is left securely, preferably out of sight, with the keys removed.
Are materials safely stacked and secured?
Ensure materials are safely stacked and stored so they can’t topple or be knocked over.
Are all flammable or dangerous substances locked away in secure storage places?
Lock up your hazardous substances in secure storage appropriate for the type of substances being stored. Where possible remove hazardous substances from the site.
Are temporary structures stable and able to withstand bad weather conditions?
Check any temporary structures such as scaffolding and barriers to ensure they are secure and stable. Taking into consideration the changing weather.
Has the mains power been switched off?
Make sure wherever possible, temporary or mains power supply and switchboards are switched off and locked out.
Do unwanted materials and waste need to be removed?
A quick clean-up can make a big difference. Make sure you remove all waste and empty skip bins.

Download our Site Security Checklist for a comprehensive list.

Some other things to consider

Doing a Site Review on the HazardCo App on the last day before you lock up will ensure you haven’t missed anything. Completing one when you return back to site gives you the opportunity to pick any additional hazards that may have occurred while away.
Although not recommended, if you do have lone workers on-site during the shutdown period, make sure you have a lone worker policy in place. Key points include setting up regular check-ins, having a first aid kit available, ensuring a trained first aider is present and not doing any high-risk work. See our lone worker article for more details.
In higher risk areas you may want to consider organising security to do regular patrols.

Taking the time to prepare for the holiday shutdown period can help to make sure you get to spend uninterrupted time with your family and friends.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss your Health and Safety please give our Advisory team a call on 0800 555 339 or email info@hazardco.com.

We hope you have a safe and enjoyable break over the holiday season!