The evolution of the OHS profession in New Zealand

Christopher Peacea,b,⁎ , Felicity Lammc , Greg Dearslyd , Helen Parkese

a Victoria Business School, Victoria University of Wellington, PO Box 600, Wellington 6140, New Zealand
b Risk Management Ltd, Wellington, New Zealand
c Auckland University of Technology, Private Bag 92006, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
d National Manager, NZISM, PO Box 128 532, Remuera, Auckland, New Zealand
e Victoria University of Wellington, PO Box 600, Wellington 6140, New Zealand

Introduction

This article examines the evolution of the OHS profession in Aotearoa New Zealand (hereafter New Zealand) and we argue that development of a profession cannot be considered in isolation at one moment in time. We show that an occupational group develops as a result of historical contextual issues that shape how stakeholders perceive the need for, status, and role of that group, and whether it should be seen as a distinct trade or a profession. We also provide a working definition of “a profession” and outline the early development of New Zealand’s generalist OHS professions in New Zealand. We conclude with a discussion of the key themes and future challenges facing the OHS profession in New Zealand. We commence, however, with a brief explanation of the methodology applied in this exercise.

Full Article: Safety Science article by Greg Chris Felicity Helen.pdf