Tag: WorkplaceSafety

South Africa has experienced over three decades of democracy. One of the main factors determining our economic resilience will not only be growth and innovation. It will also be the safety and well-being of our workforce. Yet many companies continue to take a reactive approach to workplace safety.

As winter approaches, many businesses face a familiar challenge. Colds, flu and other respiratory infections increase among employees during this period. These illnesses spread easily in shared indoor spaces. As a result, businesses experience more sick days, disrupted operations and reduced productivity. This situation also places additional strain on already stretched teams. This absenteeism costs South African businesses billions annually.

Since the Code of Good Practice on the Prevention and Elimination of Harassment in the Workplace (Code) came into effect, harassment claims have increased. These include sexual harassment, racial discrimination and gender-based bullying. They also include harassment based on arbitrary or prohibited grounds.

Public protest is a protected constitutional right in South Africa. However, when protest action moves into privately owned commercial environments such as shopping centres, different legal and risk considerations arise. In particular, protests inside shopping centres introduce complex liability questions.

The Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA) underwent significant amendments affecting employers and employees. On 23 January 2026, President Cyril Ramaphosa fixed commencement dates for most provisions. Selected sections were deferred to 1 February 2026 and 1 April 2026.