City Rail Link proves safety and scale can go hand in hand

As Auckland celebrates the opening of the City Rail Link (CRL), WorkSafe New Zealand is recognising the project's high standard of health and safety performance, demonstrating what can be achieved when safety is embedded from the start.

The City Rail Link is the country’s largest transport infrastructure project and one of the country's most complex construction undertakings. With more than 21.5 million hours worked, the project recorded two incidents requiring hospital admission, setting a new benchmark for large-scale construction in New Zealand. 

WorkSafe worked alongside CRL Limited and Link Alliance, the organisations responsible for overseeing and delivering the project, throughout its construction. The regulator provided expertise in underground construction, energy safety, occupational health, silica dust management and major project risk management.

WorkSafe’s Chief Inspector Extractives, Paul Hunt, says the project’s strong health and safety performance was driven by a high engagement approach that secured commitment at every level, from the boardroom through to the frontline workforce. 

“It’s so important to get people on the same page with health and safety before the project even starts,” he says. “Most people want to get on board, as long as they understand it.” 

“That’s what happened with City Rail Link – they were really open to it. We had regular meetings set up and on-the-ground inspectors met with on-the-ground project managers. It helped build trust and allow for collaboration to resolve any issues quickly.” 

“This project demonstrates that serious harm is not inevitable in complex construction environments. Through strong leadership, effective risk management, and a commitment to continuous improvement, those involved in City Rail Link have shown what is possible.”

“The lessons from City Rail Link extend well beyond this project,” says Paul Hunt.