A recent TikTok video of a Checkers Sixty60 driver delivering a package in the middle of a heavy downpour has stirred up a lot of conversation online.
The video, shared by TikTok user @only_talisa, shows the driver struggling to deliver groceries in the middle of a storm in Durban.
The driver, decked out in a rain suit, braves the severe weather conditions to ensure the delivery reaches its destination.
Extreme Weather Hits KwaZulu-Natal and Surrounding Areas
The video comes amid a serious weather crisis in South Africa, particularly in the KwaZulu-Natal area, where heavy rainfall, flooding, mudslides, and thunderstorms have caused significant disruption.
The South African Weather Service has issued a Level 5 storm warning for KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, and Eastern Cape, with Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo also expecting wet conditions throughout the weekend.
Public Debate Over Safety and Work Conditions
While many expressed concern over the driver’s safety, others defended the situation, saying that it was no different from the challenges faced by other working-class people.
Comments under the TikTok video highlighted that people across the country, particularly those who rely on public transport, also have to go to work in adverse weather conditions.
Some even pointed out that the Checkers Sixty60 driver was fortunate to have a motorbike for transportation, unlike others who rely on taxis or buses.
A few commenters felt the situation should be treated seriously, with one user commenting: “At least he has a bike and not walking. He earns an income, and that is what is important.”
However, a Sixty60 driver, speaking anonymously to MyBroadband, shared that their work is riskier than many others.
The driver explained that if a customer complains, the company can deduct up to R200 from their pay, and they often have to deal with dangerous driving conditions, especially during heavy rain and at night.
Checkers Sixty60’s Service Guarantee
Despite the concerns raised, Checkers Sixty60 has a service guarantee that promises deliveries “no matter the weather.”
Neil Schreuder, the Chief Strategy Officer at the Shoprite Group, which owns Checkers, explained that weather-related challenges, like heavy rain and load shedding, can complicate delivery schedules.
However, he emphasized that drivers are expected to meet the one-hour delivery window, or face potential deductions if they fail to do so.
It’s important to note that Checkers Sixty60 drivers are independent contractors who provide their own motorbikes and uniforms.
They are not entitled to employee benefits, and their income is directly tied to the number of deliveries they make.
If a delivery is late by more than 30 minutes or if the customer doesn’t receive at least 80% of their first-choice products, they can get their order for free.
Is It Safe for Checkers Sixty60 Drivers to Work in Bad Weather?
The debate continues on whether it is reasonable to expect delivery drivers to work in such extreme weather conditions.
While some argue that it’s part of the job, others believe that companies like Checkers Sixty60 should take more responsibility for the safety of their drivers, particularly when weather conditions are hazardous.
What do you think? Should Checkers Sixty60 drivers be expected to deliver in bad weather? Leave a comment or reach out to us on WhatsApp.