Background for the changes (He Kōrero Whakamārama):
Waihanga Ara Rau, the standard-setting body for Construction and Infrastructure in Aotearoa New Zealand, has revised its Training and Assessment Guidance for high-risk, compliance-based safety training. This follows extensive consultation with industry stakeholders and aligns with NZQA’s Aromatawai and Principles of Assessment for holistic assessment practices.
Why Things Are Changing (Ngā Take Matua mō te Panonitanga)
Industry feedback was clear: "We need more time on the practical assessment"
As a result, the revised approach focuses on:
- Greater focus on practical training components.
- Ensuring workers understand why safety procedures matter.
- Supporting safe work practices and returning home safely to Whānau.
When will it start (Te Rā Whakahāngai):
The updated height safety training requirements will come into effect from:
- 1 September 2025
These updates aim to raise the quality and safety of training across Aotearoa.
What's changing (Ngā Paerewa Kua Whakahoungia):
The following unit standards will now be each delivered as standalone one-day courses:
- US23229 – Use Safety Harness System when Working at Heights. This is the prerequisite for 15757
- US15757 – Use, Install and Disestablish Temporary Proprietary Height Safety Systems when Working at Height
ACT Safety fully supports the principles behind these changes and remains committed to delivering high-quality, holistic training that promotes both worker wellbeing and organisational safety.
We are also exploring new course formats and will share updates as they are developed
New Experience Requirements (Ngā Whakaritenga mō te Whakaū Mātauranga)
These unit standards will now require greater emphasis on practical experience, preferably in simulated or workplace environments:
| Unit Standard | Updated Delivery Focus |
| US 23229 | Practical harness use in real or simulated environments |
| US 15757 | Practical installation/removal of height safety systems in real or simulated environments |
These updates ensure workers are confident, capable, and adaptable in varied conditions and work environments.
The Benefits (Ngā Painga)
These changes will help ensure your staff are trained and verified to work safely and effectively:
- Enhanced safety and competency
- Better readiness for real-world tasks
- Verified training aligned with high-risk safety standards
Want to Learn More? (Mō Ētahi Atu Kōrero):
You can read the full Waihanga Ara Rau report here:
Short-Course-Guidance-Document_FINAL_5-6-25.pdf
If you have any questions or would like help preparing your team for the new standards, please get in touch
0800 270 959
Share this story