What is the Hierarchy of Controls in workplace health and safety management?
The Hierarchy of Controls is a structured framework used to eliminate, reduce, or manage workplace risks in a logical and prioritised way.
What should a workplace health and safety checklist include?
Health and safety checklists, or workplace inspection checklists, are a valuable, practical tool for identifying hazards before they result in incidents.
Should your workplace appoint an Occupational Health and Safety Practitioner?
Appointing a dedicated Occupational Health and Safety Practitioner (often called a Health and Safety Officer) can help businesses manage health and safety across multiple departments, buildings, or physical locations. Health and Safety Practitioners oversee health and safety management systems and programmes, help organisations remain legally compliant with health and safety legislation, and work to ensure […]
10 essential health and safety practices in the workplace
Implementing effective health and safety practices in the workplace is not optional; it’s a legal and moral responsibility. In South Africa, workplace health and safety requirements are governed by the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act 85 of 1993, which clearly states that employers have a duty to provide and maintain a working environment that […]
OHS Roles Explained: Health and Safety Officer vs Rep vs Supervisor
Understanding the distinction between various health and safety roles in the workplace is essential for all South African employers looking to comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 (OHS Act). In this guide, we’ll help you understand the differences between Health and Safety Officer vs Rep vs Supervisor by providing clear […]
What does a Health and Safety Officer do as a 16.2 Appointee?
It is not uncommon for Health and Safety Officers to be appointed as ‘16.2 Appointees’. This role essentially puts the Health and Safety Officer in charge of developing, implementing, and managing health and safety systems across the organisation on behalf of, and under the guidance of, the CEO. What does the OHS Act require from […]
Health and safety file requirements: Everything your business needs to know
A health and safety file contains all the documents your organisation needs to manage workplace health and safety in line with the requirements set down by the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act 85 of 1993. It is a practical, working file; not something that is compiled once and then forgotten about. When used and […]
Health and Safety Representatives in the workplace: Understanding Sections 17 and 18 of the OHS Act
The Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act 85 of 1993 provides clear guidance on the requirements for Health and Safety Representatives in the workplace. In particular, Section 17 covers the appointment of Health and Safety Representatives and Section 18 outlines the responsibilities and functions of Health and Safety Representatives. In this article, we’ll outline the […]
What is HIRA training?
HIRA training is shorthand for hazard identification and risk assessment training. Occupational HIRA training equips individuals to conduct systematic, thorough risk assessments in the workplace, including identifying hazards, evaluating and prioritising the associated risks, and proposing appropriate risk control measures. The Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act 85 of 1993 stipulates that all employers have […]
Summary of the General Safety Regulations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993
The General Safety Regulations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 apply to all businesses and workplaces in South Africa, regardless of company size, industry, or the nature of work performed. As such, ensuring that your organisation is compliant with its requirements is essential for avoiding potential legal penalties. But complying with […]