In the realm of health and safety, the Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) organization finds itself in a precarious situation. A recent review has revealed a startling lack of critical risk management, leaving staff and contractors vulnerable in remote areas. This oversight is particularly concerning given the complex and diverse nature of LINZ's operations, which encompass Crown land management, construction, demolition, biosecurity, remote work, and exposure to various risks.
The review, commissioned by LINZ, highlights a critical issue: a lack of clarity and implementation in their critical risk management program. Initially, LINZ identified eight critical risks, including Antarctica, helicopters, ships and boats, site visits, fieldwork, physical security, driving, and psychosocial risks. However, the review found that this program had not progressed beyond the initial stages, leaving a void in risk management.
One of the most alarming findings is the absence of a detailed formal Critical Risk Framework, Assurance Programme, or Critical Risk Management programme. This lack of structure is in stark contrast to other government agencies, indicating that LINZ is still in a state of development and defining its approach to managing critical risks. The review emphasizes the need for a clear programme of work, suggesting that LINZ's current state is one of confusion and uncertainty.
The psychosocial risks, which encompass bullying, harassment, stress, and fatigue, were given a "deep-dive" but still fell short. Only three out of 14 recommended actions were fully implemented, while four were partially in place. This highlights a systemic issue within LINZ's health and safety system, which is inconsistent and lacks the necessary monitoring and support.
The review's recommendations are a call to action for LINZ. They include a restructuring of health and safety team roles and increased training, particularly in change management. The agency has agreed to implement or agree in principle to 29 of the 33 recommendations, focusing on improving oversight, critical risk management, supply chain safety, and service delivery. However, the challenge lies in prioritizing these actions and ensuring a comprehensive plan for future changes.
The situation at LINZ underscores the importance of effective health and safety management, especially in high-risk industries. It serves as a reminder that a robust system requires not only technical development but also a strong culture and capability. As LINZ embarks on a "reset" for critical risks, the organization must address the underlying issues to ensure the well-being of its staff and contractors, especially in the challenging and remote environments they operate in.
