The Health and Safety Hub

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The EMA’s Health and Safety Hub shares real stories and honest conversations from people working at the coalface of health and safety. As one of New Zealand’s largest NZQA accredited health and safety training providers, the EMA supports organisations with specialist consulting, a dedicated Safety AdviceLine, and a Safety Culture Programme that strengthens everyday workplace behaviours, attitudes, and decisions from leadership to the frontline. The podcast series is proudly produced in partnership with nib.

Episodes

  1. 5d ago

    # 12 | Is Health and Safety a Cost or an Investment? Insights from Briscoe Group

    Is health and safety really a cost to the business, or can it be a driver of productivity and performance? In this episode of The Health and Safety Hub, the EMA’s Kevin Chambers is joined by Alexander Topp, Health and Safety Manager at Briscoe Group, to unpack how smart safety decisions can deliver tangible operational and financial benefits. They explore real-world retail risks, from distribution centres to shop floors, and discuss how Briscoe Group is investing in systems, design and innovative training – including virtual reality – to reduce injuries and improve outcomes.   Alexander is a graduate of the EMA’s NZ Diploma in Workplace Health and Safety Management (Level 6), the country’s only face‑to‑face NZQA Level 6 programme for health and safety professionals. In recognition of his exceptional commitment to the Diploma programme, he was awarded the prestigious Patrick Seaman Award for Excellence in Health and Safety. More information on the EMA’s health and safety training courses can be found here: Health and Safety Courses: Discover Professional Training | EMA   This podcast series is proudly produced in partnership with nib. NZ Health Insurance | Welcome to nib

    34 min

  2. May 26

    #11 | Contractor Health and Safety: We Tick the Box - Then What?

    IIn this episode, Kevin Chambers is joined by Brenton Harrison, National HSW Manager at Lactalis Mainland Dairy, formerly part of Fonterra. They have a frank conversation about why contractor management remains one of the most misunderstood and inconsistently applied areas of workplace health and safety. Brenton challenges the idea that prequalification alone equals good contractor management, arguing that organisations often put far less time, effort and oversight into contractors than employees — despite contractors frequently performing higher-risk work.   Brenton is a co-founder of the The Circus of Safety podcast. He is also a graduate of the EMA’s NZ Diploma in Workplace Health and Safety Management (Level 6), the country’s only face‑to‑face NZQA Level 6 programme for health and safety professionals.   More information on the EMA’s health and safety training courses can be found here: Health and Safety Courses: Discover Professional Training | EMA. This podcast series is proudly produced in partnership with nib.

    24 min

  3. May 19

    #10 | Drug Testing in the Workplace: What’s Legal, What’s Fair, What Works

    Drug and alcohol testing can be one of the most complex and sensitive areas of workplace health and safety. When is it lawful? What kind of testing is allowed? And how do employers balance safety, privacy and employee  rights? EMA Legal Counsel Mauro Barsi joins Kevin Chambers to unpack what employers need to know about drug testing in the workplace. They cover when testing is appropriate, the four recognised types of workplace drug testing, what “reasonable cause” really means, and what to do if an employee refuses a test. The conversation also explores safety-sensitive roles, post-incident testing, medicinal cannabis, testing methods, and why having a clear, well-consulted policy is essential. If you’re considering implementing drug testing in your workplace, you can purchase an EMA-backed Drug and Alcohol Policy template here.     If you need help updating your drug testing policy, contact the EMA Legal Team at legal@ema.co.nz or call the EMA AdviceLine for expert guidance: 0800 300 3 This podcast series is proudly produced in partnership with nib. NZ Health Insurance | Welcome to nib

    29 min

  4. May 12

    #9 | How can work play an active role in recovery after injury?

    Paul Jarvie talks with Peter Oxley from ACC about Recovery at Work and how it’s changing the way businesses support injured employees. They explore how using work as an active part of rehabilitation for injured workers with low complexity injuries, such as sprains and strains, can lead to better recovery outcomes.   In this episode they discuss what good Recovery at Work looks like in practice, including the importance of early communication, understanding medical certificates, creating meaningful suitable duties, and working collaboratively with medical providers to help employees return to work sooner and safer.   More information about the Recovery at Work can be found on the ACC website here: Supporting your injured employee to recover at work   This podcast series is proudly produced in partnership with nib.

    27 min

  5. May 5

    #8 | Mentoring Safety Reps: Building Confidence and Competence

    Kevin Chambers talks with Jessica Sturgess, HSEQ Manager at 3 Group and Founder of Prepare Consultants, about the vital role of mentoring health and safety reps. They explore how mentorship builds confidence, teaches practical and soft skills, and helps reps progress in their careers. Jessica also shares advice on training, networking, and why investing in reps benefits both businesses and individuals.   Jessica is a graduate of the EMA’s NZ Diploma in Workplace Health and Safety Management (Level 6), the country’s only face‑to‑face NZQA Level 6 programme for health and safety professionals.    More information on the EMA’s health and safety training courses can be found here: Health and Safety Courses: Discover Professional Training | EMA.   This podcast series is proudly produced in partnership with nib.

    22 min

  6. Apr 28

    #7 | From Band-Aids to Big Picture: Rethinking Workplace Wellbeing

    Rebekah Stephens talks with Paul Jarvie, Employment Relations & Safety Manager at the EMA, about why wellbeing goes beyond physical health and requires a holistic approach. They explore practical strategies for managing psychosocial hazards, embracing cultural diversity, and creating balanced, inclusive workplaces. Paul also shares insights on ISO 45003, communication best practices, and why listening is the key to healthier teams. If you’re ready to take the next step in strengthening safety at your organisation, join the EMA’s Safety Culture Programme and help build a stronger, safer workplace culture.  Learn more at: Safety Culture Programme a proactive approach to health and safety This podcast series is proudly produced in partnership with nib.

    29 min

  7. Apr 21

    #6 | The Philosophy of Safety: Why Critical Thinking Matters More Than Ever

    In this episode of The Health and Safety Hub, Kevin Chambers is joined by Andy Evans for a thought‑provoking discussion on the philosophy of safety. Andy challenges the idea of safety as a standalone discipline, arguing instead that it is an outcome shaped by leadership, learning, critical thinking and the application of knowledge from many fields. Together, they explore concepts such as zero harm, competency, and why questioning “why” matters just as much as knowing “what”.   Andy is a co-founder of The Circus of Safety podcast. He is also the Lead Facilitator for the EMA’s NZ Diploma in Workplace Health and Safety Management (Level 6), the country’s only face‑to‑face NZQA Level 6 programme for health and safety professionals.   More information on the EMA’s health and safety training courses can be found here: Health and Safety Courses: Discover Professional Training | EMA.   The Health and Safety Hub is proudly produced in partnership with nib.

    24 min

  8. Apr 14

    #5 | Managing Burnout: Practical Steps for Safer Workplaces

    Kevin Chambers talks to EMA facilitator Peter Simunovich about the growing challenge of burnout in the workplace. They explore why high performers are most vulnerable, how to spot early warning signs, and what managers can do to create a culture of trust and support. Peter also shares practical tools for identifying stress triggers and explains the legal duty of care under the Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA). Peter imparts his passion for public and psychosocial workplace mental health through his health and safety training. As well as using his training skills for the EMA, Peter teaches human sciences and has lectured in public health at universities and polytechnics across Auckland. More information on the EMA’s health and safety training courses can be found here: Health and Safety Courses: Discover Professional Training | EMA This podcast series is proudly produced in partnership with nib.

    29 min

  9. Apr 7

    #4 | Building Strong Safety Cultures Insights from Neville Rockhouse

    In this episode of The Health and Safety Hub, Kevin Chambers talks to Neville Rockhouse, who was health and safety manager at Pike River Mine. They discuss what meaningful safety leadership really looks like in high‑risk environments. Neville shares practical insights on visible leadership, building trust, creating a no‑blame culture, and why “trust but verify” is essential for any effective safety system. He also explores the role of data, accountability, and continuous learning in lifting New Zealand’s safety performance.   If you’re ready to take the next step in strengthening safety at your organisation, join the EMA’s Safety Culture Programme and help build a stronger, safer workplace culture.    Learn more at: ema.co.nz/services/health-and-safety/safety-culture-programme.   This podcast series is proudly produced in partnership with nib.

    22 min

  10. Mar 31

    #3 | Beyond Compliance Why Safety Culture Shapes Workplace Wellbeing

    In this episode, EMA Health and Safety Advisor Rebekah Stephens joins Paul Jarvie to unpack what real safety culture looks like, how leadership drives it, and why continuous improvement and trust are essential to creating safer, more engaged workplaces. If you're ready to take the next step in strengthening safety at your organisation, join the EMA’s Safety Culture Programme and help build a stronger, safer workplace culture. Learn more at: ema.co.nz/services/health-and-safety/safety-culture-programme. This podcast series is proudly produced in partnership with nib

    21 min

  11. Mar 24

    #2 | What Challenges Are Today’s Health and Safety Reps Facing at Work?

    Kevin Chambers speaks with ecoPortal Safety & Risk Specialist Craig Bleakley about the biggest challenges facing today’s health and safety reps. Craig explains why unclear expectations, limited access to information, and lack of organisational support can undermine a rep’s impact — and what good practice looks like. This is a practical conversation for both reps and leaders wanting to strengthen worker voice.   Craig has been part of the EMA’s facilitation team since 2015, bringing his practical experience to a variety of health and safety courses. More information on the EMA’s health and safety training courses can be found here: Health and Safety Courses: Discover Professional Training | EMA. This podcast series is proudly produced in partnership with nib.

    25 min

  12. Mar 11

    #1 | What Does Co‑Design Look Like in Health and Safety Training?

    Becki Abbott is the Head of Health, Safety & Wellbeing at Auckland Council - New Zealand’s largest local government organisation and one of the biggest in Australasia. She leads a team of 42 specialists dedicated to supporting the safety and wellbeing of the council’s diverse workforce. In this conversation with Kevin Chambers, Becki explores how co‑design is reshaping the way health and safety training is delivered. She shares insights into the power of learning teams, worker voice, and strong facilitation skills in creating training that reflects real work - and ultimately delivers better safety outcomes. Becki is a graduate of the EMA’s NZ Diploma in Workplace Health and Safety Management (Level 6), the country’s only face‑to‑face NZQA Level 6 programme for health and safety professionals. More information on the EMA’s health and safety training courses can be found here: Health and Safety Courses: Discover Professional Training | EMA. This podcast series is proudly produced in partnership with nib.

    26 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

The EMA’s Health and Safety Hub shares real stories and honest conversations from people working at the coalface of health and safety. As one of New Zealand’s largest NZQA accredited health and safety training providers, the EMA supports organisations with specialist consulting, a dedicated Safety AdviceLine, and a Safety Culture Programme that strengthens everyday workplace behaviours, attitudes, and decisions from leadership to the frontline. The podcast series is proudly produced in partnership with nib.

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