The Department of Employment and Labour (DoEL), in partnership with the Compensation Fund (CF), The Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (RF) (Pty) Ltd (FEM), and Rand Mutual Assurance (RMA), hosted a landmark event at Emperor’s Palace in October 2024, marking the official launch of the Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) Prevention Accord and the OHS Strategy 2024-2029.
The OHS Strategy 2024-2029 aims to support the country’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the National Development Plan (NDP), which prioritises decent work and safe working conditions. The collaborative framework established through the Prevention Accord will play a critical role in ensuring that South Africa meets these goals.
Over 300 delegates, including government representatives, industry leaders, labour unions, and OHS professionals attended the event, which reinforced South Africa’s commitment to advancing workplace health and safety under the theme “Strategic Collaboration to prevent incidents and occupational diseases in the workplace”. The Accord and Strategy aim to significantly reduce workplace injuries and illnesses through collaborative efforts across sectors.
Event highlights:
The event, directed by Chief Inspector Milly Ruiters, began with an opening address by the Department of Employment and Labout (DoEL) Deputy Minister, Hon Mr N Sibiya (MP), who set the tone for the day’s proceedings. He stressed the government’s unwavering commitment to improving workplace safety, noting that the Accord would serve as a framework for reducing occupational injuries and diseases across all industries.
The Minister of Employment and Labour, Hon. Ms N. Meth (MP) delivered the keynote address, followed by experts from CF, RMA, and FEM, including FEM CEO Nazeer Hoosen, who spoke on the direct and hidden costs associated with workplace injuries, emphasizing the financial and human impact of workplace accidents. Mr Hoosen noted, “Workplace accidents, especially those resulting in disability or death, should not be allowed to happen. These are individuals with aspirations and dreams, often the breadwinners for extended families. At FEM, we are committed to creating safer workplaces, from providing grants to numerous industry bodies to support health and safety awareness at ground level to mentoring small businesses in designing their health and safety programmes.”
A comprehensive presentation on the new OHS Strategy 2024-2029 was delivered by Ms A.Moiloa, DDG: IES, DoEL, outlining key preventive measures and industry partnerships necessary for the success of the Strategy. She stressed the importance of integrating health and safety into all aspects of workplace culture, reinforcing that “Occupational Health and Safety is a fundamental right at work.”
Keynote & Acknowledgements:
In her keynotes address, the Honourable Minister of DoEL Ms. Nomakhosazana Meth said, “FEM and RMA worked very closely with the DoEL’s OHS team to make today’s launch and signing ceremony possible. This event is fully sponsored by FEM and RMA. I am confident that in the next 5 years of the implementation of the OHS strategy we will see the improvement we all anticipate. Of interest would be how the partnerships between OHS, CF, FEM and RMA will grow and yield results. The litmus paper will be the rate of reduction and prevention of injuries and disease”.
Widespread Support:
Notable support for the event and the initiative came from organised labour and business sectors, with representatives from COSATU, FEDUSA, NACTU, SAFTU, BUSA, and the Black Business Council affirming their commitment to the Accord. Mr Z. Vavi of SAFTU highlighted the critical role of worker representation in achieving safer workplaces, while BUSA’s Ms. S. Jantjies emphasized the need for a collaborative approach between business and government to ensure sustainable outcomes.
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) was represented by Mr A. Musindo, who echoed the global perspective on workplace safety, stating, “The launch of the OHS Strategy and the signing of the Prevention Accord today represents a significant step in South Africa’s commitment to improving workplace safety and health. Safety in healthy workplaces must also be inclusive and equitable, with special attention given to workers in vulnerable situations, such as those in the informal economy, migrant workers, workers with disabilities, women, and child labourers.”
Closing remarks:
The signing of the Accord by social partners and compensation bodies marked a historic moment, signaling the beginning of a more unified and strategic approach to worker protection in South Africa.
In closing, Chief Inspector Milly Ruiters reflected on the day’s discussions, highlighting the importance of sustained efforts in preventing workplace incidents. “As we roll up our sleeves with the advisory council and our team of specialists, we are committed to achieving these five strategic objectives over the next five years. Together, we will ensure that occupational health and safety remains a priority across the country. Thank you,” she said, emphasizing the department’s ongoing commitment to improving workplace safety.
For more information on the OHS Strategy and Prevention Accord, visit www.labour.gov.za.
About FEM
The Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (RF) (Pty) Ltd (FEM) is a mutual insurer that provides Workmen’s Compensation Cover to the construction industry in terms of the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act 1993 (COIDA). FEM was established as a mutual insurer in 1936 and, on the introduction of the Workmen’s Compensation Act 1941, was granted a license to continue to transact workmen’s compensation insurance for the construction industry. FEM business operations are essentially confined to the insurance of employers against their liabilities under COIDA , and related Regulations . For more information, visit: www.fem.co.za
Media Contact
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