Health and safety for vessel operators
The Buller District Council as manager of the Port of Westport is committed to meeting its duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015. We are continually working to improve health and safety practices at the port.
- Take reasonably practicable steps to ensure the health & safety of employees and other persons while at work.
- Take reasonable care with their own health and safety and that of others.
- A Safety Management System, which is recognised by Maritime New Zealand, reviewed annually and externally audited every 5 years depending on Port performance.
- Acting on health and safety issues raised by port users.
- Maintenance and upgrading of facilities where practicable.
- Contractors are informed of hazards and controls at the port by way of signs and written or verbal information and must comply with this information.
Fishing Vessel Operators using the Port of Westport also have duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act as employers, self-employed people and visitors to the port.
Whilst at sea, Maritime New Zealand is the regulator, but once a fishing vessel ties up at one of our wharves/jetties, that vessel becomes part of our “place of work”.
Anyone who employs staff and uses the Port, has the same obligations as outlined above.
Self-employed people have a duty under the Act to ensure that any action or inaction on their part does not harm themselves or any other person.
Buller District Council advises Fishing Vessel Operators that they must be aware of their duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act.
If you require further information, please contact WorkSafe NZ on 0800 675 699 or visit the Worksafe website.
