Important legislation relating to Health and Safety:

Section 24 of the South African constitution: Everyone has the right to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well being and to have the environment protected through reasonable legislative measures.

Section 8 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act

General duties of employers to their employees

Every employer shall provide and maintain, as far as is reasonably practicable, an environment that is safe and without risk to the health of his employees.

Section 13 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act

Duty to inform

The employer has the responsibility to inform the employee of what hazards he/she might be exposed to in the workplace.

Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act

Workers who are injured or contract a disease through their work are able to claim from the Compensation Fund in accordance with the COIDA Act.

Your responsibilities:

• In case of an emergency, phone CPS (ext 2222/3) first. CPS use a unique incident management system that sends sms alerts to key people, who will - in turn - alert the appropriate emergency response units
• Know and respect your environment
• Know where to find the nearest emergency equipment
• Know your escape route
• Familiarise yourself with SHE reps, first aiders, and fire and evacuation marshals in your building

Who're you gonna call?