Quick fix bargaining pushes up WorkSafe conviction rate
The workplace safety regulator said to 'start high' with the aim of faster settlement on a discounted fine.
Under WorkSafe direction.
Brent Melville
Wed, 19 Jun 2024
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Key points
- What’s at stake: Construction and other contractors said to be willing to enter a plea bargain rather than risk going to court and face significant financial impacts, being facilitated by WorkSafe lawyers.
- Background: Several companies have spoken to NBR about settling on plea bargains for perceived health and safety transgressions, effectively sidestepping legal process but artificially elevating the agency's hit rate.
- Main players: WorkSafe, Yakka Contracting, Ward Demolition, Duncan Cotterill, MBIE.
WorkSafe's high conviction rate of about 83% is largely attributable to scare tactics that lead to fast plea bargains, a leading lawyer says.
A number of companies spoken to by NBR have also confirmed it was "common practice" to plead guilty early in the piece, and pay a reduced fine under the
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Brent Melville
Wed, 19 Jun 2024
Contact the Writer: bmelville@nbr.co.nz
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Key points
- What’s at stake: Construction and other contractors said to be willing to enter a plea bargain rather than risk going to court and face significant financial impacts, being facilitated by WorkSafe lawyers.
- Background: Several companies have spoken to NBR about settling on plea bargains for perceived health and safety transgressions, effectively sidestepping legal process but artificially elevating the agency's hit rate.
- Main players: WorkSafe, Yakka Contracting, Ward Demolition, Duncan Cotterill, MBIE.
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Quick fix bargaining pushes up WorkSafe conviction rate
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