Description

The OHS Act is the first Act in SA to accept that both the employer and his employees should address Occupational Health and Safety. The employer must take reasonable care and apply reasonable skill to provide and maintain an infrastructure (facilities, etc.), plant (machinery, etc.), operations and services that are safe. He/ She must also select knowledgeable and skilled staff to manage, supervise and operate the business in a responsible manner with regard to the health and safety of others (employees, contractors, visitors and the public) and their own. Employees, on the other hand, are of the most important assets in any organisation. Their health and safety is not negotiable. The health and safety of all the employees are of the utmost importance to the company because, the environment, health and safety of individuals, not only affects the quality of life at work but also the social standard of living of their families and the community at large. Guarding against conditions in the work environment, which could lead to injuries and ill health of himself/herself, fellow employees and members of the public is the responsibility of each individual. This approach is the core of the OHS-Act The OHS Act aims to ensure acceptable safe working conditions and a working environment free from hazards. Failing to identify unsafe acts or conditions or take action to prevent incidents that could harm employees, contract workers, visitors and probably the environment can lead to legal action against employers.