Construction and trades under greatest skill shortage pressure

Businesses in construction and trades and retail and hospitality reported feeling the most pressure from skills shortages according to the latest MYOB business monitor survey.

MYOB says hiring skilled employees and understanding health and safety compliance top the list of pain points for local businesses.

The survey of more than 1,000 small to medium sized businesses across New Zealand highlights that 41% are struggling to find staff, while 36% are experiencing difficulties understanding health and safety compliance and 29% are unsure of their obligations when it comes to dismissing an employee.

MYOB small business head Ingrid Cronin-Knight says the right staff hire is fundamental to the growth and development of any business.

“Skill shortages have been a significant problem for some time now, with sectors such as construction, IT, manufacturing, retail and hospitality crying out for skilled workers,” says Cronin-Knight.

She says businesses in construction and trades (54%) and retail and hospitality (50%) reported feeling the most pressure from skills shortages.

At the same time, there has been a marked increase in uncertainty surrounding health and safety obligations, particularly in the rural sector.

Following the introduction of the Health and Safety at Work Act in April this year, half of all rural business operators now cite health and safety compliance as an issue for their business – an 11% increase in 12 months.

The concern with health and safety compliance also feature in the manufacturing sector with 45% of operators highlighting it as an issue, compared to 26% a year ago.

Cronin-Knight says that although the law changes are well publicised, there is more work to be done to realise good health and safety practices.

“It’s imperative that businesses and employees, no matter what size or industry they’re in, understand the latest compliance obligations,” she says.

“A company’s primary duty under the new law to ensure the health and safety of not only employees but anyone affected by the work it carries out,” says Cronin-Knight.

“Workers too, must take reasonable care to ensure the health and safety of themselves and others and comply with their workplace’s policies,” she says.

“If you’re not sure about your obligations then it is best to familiarise yourself with the Act, and reach out if you need extra assistance,” says Cronin-Knight.