Site Safe Manual Handling and Wellbeing

Question 1

What is the NZ approach to managing manual handling risks on construction sites?

Accepted Answer

Assess the task, load, environment, and individual capability; eliminate or reduce manual handling where possible; provide mechanical aids; train workers in safe techniques

Answer

There are no specific manual handling guidelines in NZ construction

Answer

Workers should lift however feels comfortable to them

Answer

Manual handling injuries are an unavoidable part of construction work

Question 2

What is the correct manual lifting technique taught in NZ Site Safe training?

Accepted Answer

Plan the lift, stand close to the load, bend at the knees (not the back), grip firmly, lift using leg muscles, keep the load close to your body, and avoid twisting

Answer

Bend at the waist and lift with your back muscles

Answer

Always lift quickly to minimise the time under load

Answer

The technique doesn't matter as long as you wear a back brace

Question 3

Under NZ health and safety law, what is the employer's obligation regarding worker fatigue in construction?

Accepted Answer

Manage fatigue risks by monitoring work hours, ensuring adequate rest breaks, assessing fitness for duty, and considering fatigue in risk assessments

Answer

Fatigue is the worker's personal responsibility only

Answer

Only truck drivers need fatigue management in NZ

Answer

Workers can work unlimited hours as long as they are paid overtime

Question 4

What are the NZ workplace regulations regarding rest and meal breaks for construction workers?

Accepted Answer

Workers are entitled to paid 10-minute rest breaks and an unpaid 30-minute meal break, with timing depending on the length of the work period

Answer

No breaks are required on construction sites

Answer

Breaks are only required for workers under 18

Answer

Workers can choose to skip breaks to finish work earlier

Question 5

What are the common musculoskeletal injuries in NZ construction and how can they be prevented?

Accepted Answer

Back injuries, shoulder strains, and knee injuries — prevented through proper lifting technique, mechanical aids, task rotation, warm-up exercises, and ergonomic work design

Answer

Construction workers don't get musculoskeletal injuries

Answer

Only back injuries are common — other joints are not at risk

Answer

These injuries can only be treated, not prevented

Question 6

What is the NZ construction industry approach to mental health and wellbeing?

Accepted Answer

Recognise that construction workers face mental health risks, promote help-seeking behaviour, provide EAP services, reduce stigma, and support the MATES in Construction programme

Answer

Mental health is not a workplace issue

Answer

Only workers with diagnosed conditions need support

Answer

Mental health discussions are not appropriate on construction sites