OSH a focus of big builders conference this weekend
Health and safety is a big topic at the Certified Builders annual bash in Christchurch.
Record number of attendees and exhibitors will be at the Certified Builders’ Annual Conference and Expo being held in Christchurch this weekend.
Christchurch as a venue is apt given the massive amount of construction under way in the central city and every suburb.
Those attending will encounter the obstacles of getting around when every other main road is half closed for pipe and street repairs, making the driving experience as frustrating as it is in Auckland.
Building and Housing Minister Nick Smith opens the conference this morning, and Labour Party Leader Andrew Little will close it at the end of Saturday.
Certified Builders chief executive Grant Florence says the conference’s focus on health and safety is relevant given the legislative changes to be introduced later this year.
One of the keynote speakers, Rhett Brown, suffered a life-changing fall whilst working on site and will speak about his experience.
Another featured speaker at the conference is Davey Hughes, known as the “Swazi Man” after his outdoor clothing company.
Another highlight is a live hook-up with New Zealand’s southern-most construction project at Scott Base, Antarctica, where two apprentices have been working since January on the Hillary Field Centre, supported by Antarctica New Zealand and Certified Builders, in conjunction with the Industry Training Association Building and the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation.
The conference will also include the final of the Carpentry Apprenticeship Challenge, with 12 regional winners competing for the top spot and winning prizes valued at over $10,000, including an experience at Outward Bound.
Certified Builders is the only building trade association that requires trade qualification for membership.
Chris Hutching
Fri, 22 May 2015
Fri, 22 May 2015
© All content copyright NBR. Do not reproduce in any form without permission, even if you have a paid subscription.
OSH a focus of big builders conference this weekend
47916