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School agrees to enforceable undertaking after injuries
Two students were seriously hurt during a school drama production. They suffered serious cuts to the throat instead of the simulated dramatic effect intended. This breached the Health and Safety at Work Act as the school failed to take all practicable steps.
WorkSafe has accepted the enforceable undertaking instead of a prosecution. This is the first time this process has been accepted by WorkSafe.
The school has:
- Accepted responsibility for the accident and the harm caused.
- Agreed to a restorative justice process with the victims including payment of reparation and agreed to improve health and safety within the education sector nationwide by developing guidance and training for schools throughout the country.
Alan Knowsley
Health & Safety Lawyer
Wellington