The Act is primarily administered by the Department of Labour Health and Safety Service and the Minister of Labour is the relevant Minister.

But the Act also recognises that there are some sectors or industries where it may be better to have another Government agency involved. Two such agencies have been designated by the Prime Minister, with effect from 5 May 2003.

The Maritime New Zealand has been designated as the agency responsible for administering the HSE Act for work on board ships and for ships as places of work.

The Civil Aviation Authority has been designated in respect of the aviation sector, specifically for aircraft while in operation.