New ACOP to Clarify Health and Safety Roles on NZ Residential Construction Sites

Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden unveiled a new Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) today that details how businesses and workers should meet health and safety duties on residential construction sites. The ACOP, titled *Identifying health and safety roles and responsibilities on a residential construction site*, will take effect on 1 April 2027, coinciding with upcoming amendments to the Health and Safety at Work Act. It was drafted with industry input and aims to give clear guidance to clients, principal contractors, subcontractors and workers on who must perform key safety tasks. The New Zealand Certified Builders Association welcomed the launch, noting that the ACOP balances safety improvement with practical compliance for small builders. After 1 April 2027, the ACOP could receive safe‑harbour status, meaning that following its guidance could serve as evidence of legal compliance, pending ministerial re‑approval. WorkSafe will collaborate with the sector to help firms apply the ACOP in everyday operations.