Introduction to OHS Act (1993)
Ohs Act and GAR Course, this course provides an introduction to the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act 1993 (As Amended) for South Africa.
Participants learn about the key provisions of the act, their rights and responsibilities under the act, and how to comply with it
Ohs Act and GAR Course Content
- LEGISLATION FRAMEWORK
1.1 The legislative process of the Ohs act and Regulations
1.2 Understand legislation contravention
1.3 Consequences for not adhering to the Ohs Act
1.4 Objectives of the OHS Act and regulations
1.5 Legal requirements as per the law
Legal framework
“The Occupational Health and Safety Act of 1993 is a concise document. It outlines general obligations for employers (section 8) and expectations for employees (section 14). Additionally, it defines the roles of health and safety representatives (section 17) and the health and safety committee (section 19). The Act covers administrative matters and addresses penalties and fines for violations (section 38). However, the accompanying Regulations provide detailed information on specific workplace items and situations.
Importantly, it’s essential to understand that the Occupational Health and Safety Act is passed by parliament and signed by the state president. Section 43 of the Act empowers the Minister of Labour to promulgate regulations that address specific issues. These Regulations cover various aspects related to workplace safety.
The OHS Act, a criminal statute, comprises 50 sections enacted by parliament and signed by the state president. Its primary objectives are:
Ensuring the health and safety of persons at work and those using plant and machinery.
Protecting individuals other than workers from health and safety hazards arising from work activities.
Establishing an advisory council for occupational health and safety and addressing related matters.
Section 43 further allows the Minister to create regulations, which are subsequently promulgated in the Government Gazette for full implementation.
Here’s how the regulatory process unfolds:
