Enforcement data reveals where forestry needs to lift its game

Strengthening organisational capability, planning, supervision and risk management remains one of the forestry sector’s biggest challenges, according to new enforcement data released by WorkSafe New Zealand.

During the 2025/26 business year, WorkSafe conducted 526 assessments across the forestry industry. One in four assessments resulted in enforcement action, with 131 assessments leading to notices or other enforcement measures. In total, 207 enforcement measures were issued.

The data provides a snapshot of the key hazards and system failures inspectors are identifying in forestry operations around the country.

The largest single category of enforcement activity was system-related notices, which accounted for 39% of all enforcement measures. According to WorkSafe, these notices generally did not relate to a specific hazard, but instead highlighted weaknesses in the systems, processes and management practices that underpin safe operations.

Key areas of concern included regulatory compliance, risk management systems, competency and training, supervision, health and safety management systems, emergency preparedness, and contractor and PCBU coordination.

“The prevalence of system-related enforcement indicates that strengthening organisational capability, planning, supervision, and risk management remains critical to preventing the top harm events experienced in the forestry sector,” the WorkSafe overview states.

Among the specific harm categories, being hit by a vehicle or moving plant was the most common reason for enforcement action, accounting for 26% of measures issued. Inspectors identified recurring issues including inadequate traffic management, machine rollover risks, damaged operator protective structures and unsafe mobile plant.

Exposure to hazardous substances acounted for 17% of measures issued. Many notices related to deficiencies in worker health monitoring, exposure monitoring and hazardous substance management, as well as shortcomings in personal protective equipment and respiratory protection.

Being hit by a falling object accounted for 12% of enforcement measures. These notices were primarily linked to tree felling and log management activities, with inspectors identifying unsafe felling practices, falling stems and branches, unstable log stacks and chain-shot hazards.

Falls from height made up 6% of enforcement measures. Most notices were associated with arboriculture work, tree climbing, tower yarder activities and maintenance work at height. Common issues included inadequate rescue planning, fall-risk assessments and controls.

While the data highlights ongoing risks around forestry’s traditional high-hazard activities, the high number of system notices points to a broader challenge. Effective safety systems, competent supervision and robust risk management remain the foundations for preventing serious injuries and fatalities across the industry.