The deadline for submissions on the Excavations and Shafts Approved Code of Practice closed on Friday, 9th April 2010. Review report under development.

The Department of Labour is seeking input for a revision of the Excavations and Shafts Approved Code of Practice to further identify issues and ensure that the publication meets industry needs. When completed, the revised Code is intended to replace the current ACOP published in 1995.

The reasons for the revision of the Approved Code are:

• to include the amendments to the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 that came into effect in May 2003;
• to reflect current good practice operating in a range of diverse workplaces across New Zealand;
• to ensure that guidance material provided around this issue is consistent with other New Zealand documents; and
• to ensure that New Zealand guidance documents reflect international best practice.

It is intended that the reviewed Code would apply to the construction and mining industries. Interested parties are invited to comment on the proposed Code.

Public consultation

The Department welcomes your comments on this draft document. Please see the section below.

Excavation and Shafts ACOP draft document (existing ACOP)
Excavation and Shafts ACOP Response Form [rtf 4pages, 203kB]

If you wish to provide feedback, please complete the Response Form and return it by email or post to:
Demi Naylor
Senior Advisor, Standard Setting
Department of Labour
PO Box 3705
Wellington 6140
Email: demi.naylor@dol.govt.nz

Responses are due by 5pm on Friday 9th April 2010.