Improving Safety for Speed Camera Operators
WorkSafe has accepted a binding commitment from the New Zealand Police to enhance safety measures for speed camera operators following a tragic incident in Auckland. In August 2021, a speed camera operator was critically injured in a high-speed collision on the Upper Harbour Highway at Greenhithe, where the operator was thrown from his parked van after being struck by a car. The car driver tragically died, and the operator sustained life-changing injuries.
Enhanced Safety Measures
A WorkSafe investigation revealed that the Police could have conducted a more effective risk assessment of the locations where operators work from, and should have ensured safe parking behind motorway barriers and the use of seatbelts. In response to this incident, the Police has committed to several safety improvements, including:
- Reparations to the injured operator
- Enhanced traffic camera operator induction and training
- Implementation of a framework for managing critical risks
- Establishment of a dedicated critical risk team
- Sharing lessons learned with the transport sector
Positive Change
WorkSafe’s deputy chief executive operations, Kane Patena, emphasized that these activities aim to bring about lasting health and safety improvements and create a positive outcome from a tragic event. The commitment has been endorsed by the injured operator and the Police Association, highlighting a significant investment from the Police towards worker safety.
Continued Monitoring
WorkSafe will closely monitor the progress of the agreed safety measures and has the authority to resume prosecution if the commitments are not upheld. Additionally, starting in 2025, NZTA will operate speed cameras through a contracted third-party provider with input from the Police to improve safety protocols.
Read the enforceable undertaking decision document
Statements from Officials
New Zealand Police Deputy Commissioner Jevon McSkimming
Deputy Commissioner Jevon McSkimming emphasized the importance of safety for both the community and Police personnel, expressing the commitment to systemic changes to ensure the well-being of all traffic camera operators.
Injured Traffic Camera Operator
The injured traffic camera operator shared his experience of the incident and expressed gratitude for the support received during his recovery. Despite enduring severe injuries, he returned to work in December 2022, highlighting the importance of safety improvements to prevent similar incidents in the future.