Occupational health and safety training requirements for South African businesses

Occupational health and safety training requirements in the workplace fall into two broad categories: internal and external training. Internal training is specific to the company’s particular risks, equipment, and work processes and is developed and delivered in-house, usually by a Health and Safety Officer. External training, on the other hand, is facilitated by an accredited […]
What is a fire risk assessment?

A fire risk assessment is a methodical process conducted within a building or workplace to identify potential fire hazards, evaluate the associated fire risks (the potential for a fire incident to occur), and establish control measures to eliminate or reduce those fire risks. Regular fire risk assessments are a cornerstone of workplace fire safety and […]
Do you need a trained firefighter at work?

Fire risks exist in every workplace. Even in seemingly low-risk settings like offices and shops, the presence of electrical equipment like kettles and printers and combustible materials like paper and cardboard are enough to present a very real fire risk. In higher-risk settings, like workplaces containing flammable or hazardous materials, the fire risk is of […]
How an Emergency Preparedness Plan differs from an Emergency Response Plan

Although these two terms are often used interchangeably, an emergency preparedness plan and an emergency response plan are actually two different things and should not be conflated. While an emergency preparedness plan focuses on ensuring that your organisation is adequately prepared to deal with possible emergencies, an emergency response plan focuses on spelling out the […]
What does a fire extinguisher service entail?

To comply with the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act, SANS codes, and local municipality fire safety by-laws, fire extinguishers should be serviced annually by SAQCC-registered technicians. During a service, the technician will carry out a general inspection of the extinguisher to check for damage, check the pressure gauge, inspect the nozzle and hose for […]
Classes of fire in the workplace: Frequently asked questions

In this blog, we’ll answer some of the most commonly asked questions around the classification of fire and types of fire extinguishers in the context of the workplace. Why do I need to understand the different classes of fire that may occur in the workplace? When a fire breaks out at work, being able to […]
Basic Firefighting Course vs Advanced Firefighting Course: Which is right for you?

In this blog, we’ll help you decide whether a basic Firefighting course or an Advanced Firefighting course is the right certification for you. We’ll discuss why firefighting training is essential for most workplaces, what content is covered in basic Firefighting and Advanced Firefighting courses, and what to expect when it comes to firefighting course prices. […]
Hazard Identification in the Workplace: A Guide to Legal Compliance with HIRA

Ensure workplace safety with effective hazard identification. Learn how HIRA helps businesses assess risks, comply with regulations, and prevent accidents.
Employees Health and Safety Responsibilities: Understanding Your Role in Workplace Safety

Learn the duties of employees in health and safety, employer responsibilities, and the role of safety officers in ensuring workplace safety and compliance.
Workplace Evacuation Planning: Steps to a Safe and Compliant Emergency Response

Develop a safe workplace with effective evacuation planning to ensure compliance and protect employees during emergencies.