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A major leap forward in worker safety is taking shape in the timber manufacturing industry with the introduction of AI-powered hazard detection, thanks to a nearly half-million-dollar agreement between WorkSafe New Zealand and Claymark, the country’s largest manufacturer and exporter of premium pine products. This initiative comes in response to a workplace tragedy where a […]
A major leap forward in worker safety is taking shape in the timber manufacturing industry with the introduction of AI-powered hazard detection, thanks to a nearly half-million-dollar agreement between WorkSafe New Zealand and Claymark, the country’s largest manufacturer and exporter of premium pine products. This initiative comes in response to a workplace tragedy where a worker lost two fingers due to unsafe machinery at Claymark’s Rotorua factory in February 2023.
Following a WorkSafe investigation into the incident, it was found that the machine involved wasn’t properly guarded, and the company’s maintenance systems were inadequate. Additionally, the worker hadn’t received the necessary training or supervision. This tragic event highlighted the need for a stronger approach to health and safety in the timber industry, leading Claymark to commit to improving its safety protocols.
Now, Claymark has entered into an enforceable undertaking (EU) with WorkSafe, a binding agreement that will make sure the company takes the right steps to fix its shortcomings. As part of the EU, Claymark is investing $481,000 in a range of safety initiatives, including the development and deployment of innovative AI technology designed to detect hazards in real-time.
The highlight of Claymark’s safety plan is the use of CCTV systems combined with AI capabilities. These systems will actively monitor workers’ surroundings and alert them to any potential safety risks before they turn into serious issues. This tech aims to prevent accidents by providing an extra layer of awareness that workers or supervisors might otherwise miss.
In addition to rolling out AI systems, Claymark will offer up to 15 trials of the technology to other businesses in the wood manufacturing sector, encouraging broader use of smarter safety solutions across the industry. The company is also introducing microlearning tools and interactive safety displays in break rooms to continuously educate workers on health and safety.
Claymark’s efforts go beyond just meeting regulations—they reflect a well-rounded approach to workplace safety, focusing both on technology and employee engagement. The company has also committed to offering reparation to the injured worker and collaborating with local communities and schools to raise awareness about safe practices in wood manufacturing.
Along with the technological upgrades, Claymark is working with the Central North Island Wood Council (CNIWC) and other industry groups to share their safety learnings and help build a stronger culture of health and safety within the timber sector. The company aims to create a workplace where workers feel supported, informed, and ready to tackle safety challenges.
Alongside the AI surveillance systems, Claymark is modernising its approach to worker training. The company is investing in online, interactive training modules that can be customised for different roles within the factory. These flexible modules will allow workers to complete safety training at their own pace, making sure they are fully prepared to recognise and deal with potential hazards.
“We’re excited to see Claymark lead the way with AI innovation, which could benefit the wider timber processing sector,” said Tracey Conlon, WorkSafe’s Head of Regulatory Services. “Agreements like this are all about turning a negative event into an opportunity for positive change.”
Paul Pedersen, Claymark’s executive director, echoed this commitment, saying that the company’s focus on safety goes beyond just meeting the rules. “This is about creating a workplace where our people feel informed, supported, and safe. Claymark is committed to continuous improvement and working with others to build a safer, stronger future for our people, our industry, and our communities.”
For Claymark, this isn’t just a regulatory response—it’s a personal commitment to ensuring that no worker faces the same risks again. The company recognizes that workplace safety is a constant journey, requiring ongoing attention, adaptation, and innovation.
The worker who lost two fingers in the incident has been deeply affected by the accident. After undergoing three surgeries and facing a long recovery, he continues to adapt to life with a permanent injury. While the injury has changed his life in significant ways—including his ability to play music, a passion he’s had for years—he remains hopeful about the future and thankful for the support from his family and Claymark.
In his statement, the worker expressed appreciation for Claymark’s efforts to improve safety, saying, “I’m really grateful for Claymark’s commitment to improving workplace safety, especially the initiatives outlined in this agreement. I’ve seen these changes firsthand. While my future looks different than I imagined, I’m determined to keep moving forward, one day at a time.”
As Claymark leads the way in using AI technology and improving safety practices, it sets an example for the timber manufacturing industry and other high-risk sectors to follow. By combining cutting-edge technology with a focus on worker well-being, Claymark is paving the way for a safer, smarter, and more sustainable future in the workplace.
This partnership between WorkSafe and Claymark shows how businesses can turn a serious incident into a chance for meaningful change. By prioritizing worker safety through innovative solutions like AI and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, the timber industry is taking big steps toward reducing accidents and improving safety for workers nationwide.
