New construction ACOP to bring health and safety clarity
New Zealand’s workplace safety minister launched an Approved Code of Practice to clarify health and safety roles on residential construction sites ahead of 2027 legislative changes.
Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden introduced a new Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) designed to clarify health and safety responsibilities for businesses and workers on residential construction sites. The ACOP, developed with sector input, will take effect on 1 April 2027, aligning with upcoming amendments to health and safety laws. It aims to address the complexities of multiple trades working simultaneously, where overlapping duties can create confusion. The guidance is intended to support compliance while reflecting practical realities on construction sites.
The ACOP, titled Identifying health and safety roles and responsibilities on a residential construction site, was created to help clients, contractors, and workers prepare for the 2027 changes. It outlines how to assign and coordinate key safety activities among different parties, such as roofers and electricians, to prevent critical tasks from being overlooked. Following its introduction, the ACOP may later be granted safe harbour status, meaning compliance with its provisions could serve as evidence of meeting legal duties. WorkSafe will assist industry in understanding and applying the ACOP in daily operations.
New Zealand Certified Builders Association Chief Executive Malcolm Fleming welcomed the ACOP, stating it balances improved safety outcomes with practical compliance for small and medium-sized building businesses. Fleming highlighted that the guidance supports safer workplaces while remaining achievable for the thousands of SME builders who form the sector’s backbone. The association emphasised that the ACOP addresses the realities of running small construction businesses without imposing excessive burdens.
WorkSafe will collaborate with industry to ensure businesses can effectively implement the ACOP. The code is not mandatory but sets a recognised standard for compliance, offering clarity on roles, communication, and risk management. The ACOP can be accessed on the WorkSafe website, providing a centralised resource for the residential construction sector to align with the forthcoming legislative changes.