The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act 85 of 1993) places clear legal obligations on every employer in South Africa. Whether you run a small business or a large corporation, understanding what the Act requires is the first step toward building a safe and compliant workplace.
What Does the OHS Act Require?
The OHS Act requires employers to provide and maintain a working environment that is safe and without risk to the health of employees. This includes providing safe plant and machinery, safe systems of work, and ensuring that all employees are properly trained and informed about hazards.
Key Employer Obligations
Employers must conduct baseline risk assessments and maintain a legal register of all applicable regulations. They must appoint a competent person to manage health and safety, ensure all incidents are reported to the Department of Employment and Labour, and maintain records of training, inspections, and incidents.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Non-compliance with the OHS Act can result in fines of up to R100,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both. More importantly, non-compliance puts your employees at risk of injury or death — a consequence no business can afford.
How Kenako HSE Can Help
Our team of registered safety professionals can conduct a full OHS Act gap analysis, develop your legal register, implement your safety management system, and provide the ongoing compliance support your organisation needs. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation assessment.