The Maritime Union says the accident at Port Chalmers highlights the need for an industry audit of health and safety, sooner rather than later.

A worker is in hospital after the straddle container carrier he was driving toppled over yesterday afternoon.

National Secretary Joe Fleetwood said there are many risks for workers, and it's one of the most dangerous industries.

Targets put workers under pressure, as "there is a big push coming in from these major shipping companies, dictating what happens in the ports."

"We need to get in on time, get out on time, work quicker, quicker. All those peer pressures, stress, they all need to be addressed."

National Secretary Joe Fleetwood said it's one of the most dangerous industries, and this incident "highlights the importance of having an audit of the health and safety review of the country, of all stevedoring companies."

The Union is awaiting the result of the investigation into the accident, which will continue today.