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Forestry Machinery in New Zealand’s Regulatory Landscape

DEG |

Forestry is one of New Zealand’s highest-risk industries, with machinery-related incidents continuing to feature prominently in serious harm statistics. At DEG Consulting Engineering, we specialise in designing and certifying forestry machinery that meets the operational demands of the sector while aligning with New Zealand’s health and safety legislation and recognised standards.

Regulatory Framework

Forestry machinery design is governed by a combination of statutory obligations, codes of practice, and technical standards. Key requirements include:

  • Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA)
    Establishes the duty of care for all Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs), including designers, manufacturers, and operators of forestry machinery.
  • Approved Code of Practice for Safety and Health in Forest Operations (ACOP)
    Provides practical guidance for meeting obligations under HSWA, particularly in harvesting, silviculture, and log transport operations.
  • Relevant AS/NZS and ISO Standards, including:
    • AS/NZS 4024 series – Safety of Machinery
    • AS 1636 and ISO 3471/3449 – Roll-Over Protective Structures (ROPS), Falling Object Protective Structures (FOPS), and Operator Protective Structures (OPS)
    • AS/NZS 1418 – Cranes and lifting components
    • AS 4991 – Lifting Devices
    • AS/NZS 1657 – Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders

Safety-Critical Design Elements

DEG’s forestry machinery designs incorporate the following safety features, each referenced to applicable standards:

Component

Safety Feature and Compliance Reference

Operator Protection

ROPS, FOPS, OPS certified to ISO 3471/3449; COPS integrated where required

Access and Egress

AS/NZS 1657-compliant platforms, handrails, and anti-slip surfaces

Hydraulic Systems

Fail-safe design with pressure relief and lockout mechanisms

Lifting Attachments

AS 4991-rated spreader beams, lifting lugs, and anchor points

Fall Protection

Integrated anchor points for fall arrest and restraint systems

Documentation and Audit Readiness

All DEG designs are supported by comprehensive documentation to ensure audit defensibility and operational clarity:

  • Engineering certification and load rating documentation
  • Compliance matrices mapped to HSWA, ACOP, and AS/NZS standards
  • Maintenance and inspection schedules aligned with ISO/IEC 17020 and 17025
  • Design drawings and modification records with full traceability

Why Safety-Led Design Matters

New Zealand’s forestry sector continues to face scrutiny over workplace safety. Machinery design plays a critical role in reducing risk and ensuring compliance. By embedding safety into the design phase, DEG helps clients:

  • Meet WorkSafe NZ expectations
  • Reduce liability exposure
  • Ensure defensibility in audits, investigations, and contract reviews

DEG Consulting Engineering delivers forestry machinery solutions that are safe, compliant, and built for New Zealand’s unique operating environments. Whether designing new equipment, modifying existing assets, or certifying lifting gear, we provide technical assurance backed by regulatory precision.

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