GUIDED NZ RENTALS – COMPLETE HEALTH & SAFETY MANUAL

1. HEALTH & SAFETY COMMITMENT

Guided NZ Rentals is committed to providing safe vehicles and safe operating procedures for customers, staff, contractors, and the public.

We comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (New Zealand) and take all reasonably practicable steps to minimise risks associated with vehicle rental operations.

2. RESPONSIBILITIES

Management:

• Maintain safe vehicles and systems
• Provide clear safety procedures
• Ensure legal compliance

Staff:

• Perform vehicle inspections
• Report hazards immediately
• Follow safety procedures

Customers:

• Hold valid licence
• Follow NZ road rules
• Report faults or incidents immediately

3. VEHICLE SAFETY MANAGEMENT

All vehicles:

• Serviced to manufacturer schedule
• Maintain valid WOF and registration
• Checked for tyres, brakes, lights, fluids, and seatbelts
• Removed from service immediately if unsafe

4. PRE‑RENTAL SAFETY CHECK

Before each rental:

• Inspect tyres and pressure
• Check dashboard warning lights
• Confirm fuel level
• Verify mirrors and seatbelts
• Record exterior condition
• Photograph vehicle if required

5. WEATHER AND ALPINE DRIVING SAFETY

New Zealand alpine weather can change rapidly.

Drivers must be aware:

• Heavy rain reduces visibility and braking performance
• Snow and ice common in winter
• Black ice may exist even when roads look clear
• Strong winds may affect stability
• Fog may occur suddenly

Drivers must adjust speed to conditions. Snow chains may be legally required on some roads.

6. NEW ZEALAND ROAD CONDITIONS

NZ roads may include:

• Narrow rural highways
• Steep mountain passes
• Sharp bends and blind corners
• Gravel or unsealed roads
• Single‑lane bridges
• Tourist-heavy scenic routes

Drivers must reduce speed on gravel and unfamiliar roads.

7. QUEENSTOWN WINTER DRIVING

Winter risks include:

• snow-covered roads
• hidden ice
• reduced daylight
• freezing temperatures

Drivers must allow extra stopping distance and follow all chain-control or road closure instructions.

Guided NZ Rentals may restrict travel routes during severe weather.

8. ACCIDENT PROCEDURE

If an accident occurs:

1. Stop safely and turn on hazard lights
2. Check for injuries
3. Call emergency services (111) if required
4. Contact Guided NZ Rentals immediately
5. Collect driver and witness details
6. Take photos

Do not admit liability at the scene.

9. BREAKDOWN PROCEDURE

If the vehicle becomes unsafe:

• Pull over safely
• Turn on hazard lights
• Contact Guided NZ Rentals
• Follow roadside assistance instructions

Do not continue driving with serious warning lights.

10. DRUG, ALCOHOL & FATIGUE POLICY

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited.

Drivers must not operate vehicles while fatigued or medically unfit.

Violation voids insurance and rental agreement.

11. INCIDENT REPORTING

All incidents must be reported including:

• accidents
• breakdowns
• vehicle damage
• safety concerns
• near misses

Records are maintained for safety compliance and improvement.

12. NZ HEALTH & SAFETY COMPLIANCE

Guided NZ Rentals follows the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015.

We:
• identify hazards
• assess risks
• implement controls
• monitor incidents
• continuously improve procedures

Failure to follow safety instructions may result in rental termination.

13. Emergency Contact

Emergency Services: Dial 111

Customers must also contact Guided NZ Rentals immediately using the official business contact number.