Tragic Workplace Incidents Highlight Urgent Need for Stricter Safety Measures in NZ

In a tragic reminder of workplace safety, two separate incidents involving high-voltage power lines have led to devastating consequences for workers in New Zealand, prompting authorities to urge stricter safety measures in industries that operate near such hazards. The first incident occurred in February 2023 when 25-year-old Irish national, Mr. Clear, was electrocuted while working on a farm near Whakapapa Village. According to a statement from WorkSafe, Mr. Clear was attempting to extract a bogged-down mower when a digger inadvertently made contact with an overhead power line carrying 33,000 volts. The electric current passed through the digger’s arm into Mr. Clear, resulting in his untimely death. A subsequent investigation revealed that Clear's employer, Coogan Contracting, had neglected to conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify the overhead lines as a significant hazard and failed to have a designated spotter to prevent such contact. The community was left in shock and mourning, with Gordon Pearson, chairman of the Clough-Ballacolla Gaelic Athletic Association, expressing the heartbreak felt by friends and family. "He was such a nice chap. He had a word for everybody," Pearson lamented, underscoring the loss of a beloved young man whose life was cut short by what many described as a "freak accident." Just a few months later, in May 2023, another incident occurred involving Emmett Holmes-O'Connor, who sustained serious injuries while working on scaffolding in Waiheke. Holmes-O'Connor was carrying aluminum cladding when it came into contact with an 11kV high-voltage line, resulting in a severe electric shock that caused him to fall nearly four meters from the scaffolding. WorkSafe's investigation into this incident led to charges against both his employer, Joan Carpenters Limited (JCL), and the scaffolding company, Church Bay Services Limited (CBSL), for failing to adhere to health and safety regulations. In December 2024, JCL was fined $16,500 and CBSL $13,500, with reparations totaling $42,818 to be shared between the two companies. In the wake of these incidents, WorkSafe has underscored the critical need for heightened safety protocols for businesses operating near power lines. Danielle Henry, WorkSafe’s area investigation manager, emphasized the importance of risk management and adherence to mandated safety requirements. "Both cases are a horrific reminder of just how dangerous it can be when businesses do not take enough care with working around power lines," she stated, urging all employers to conduct comprehensive assessments and ensure that necessary precautions are taken before commencing work. The incidents serve as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with high-voltage electricity and the vital importance of prioritizing safety in all workplaces. As investigations continue and legal ramifications unfold, the hope is that these tragic events will catalyze a stronger commitment to safety practices that protect workers in New Zealand and beyond.