Thulas warns that lifting of COVID-19 protocols does not mean employers must adopt a cavalier attitude towards health

Thulas Nxesi, the minister of employment and labor, has issued a warning that the removal of the final COVID-19 guidelines does not obligate employers to take a careless approach to health and safety at work.

Nxesi said in a statement on Thursday that his department supports and appreciates the move to do away with the COVID-19 restrictions. He advised firms to “play it safe,” nevertheless.

As South Africa has low COVID-19 infections and related mortality, Health Minister Dr. Joe Phaahla on Wednesday announced the easing of the mandatory use of masks as well as the removal of restrictions on gatherings.

“Our labor market continues to place a high focus on worker health and safety.

According to Nxesi, all leaders are still responsible for creating an inclusive environment that promotes safety and gives employees a comfortable working environment.

“The Code of Practice on the Management of Exposure to Sars-Cov-2 in the Workplace remains the guiding principle on matters of health and safety in the workplace.

The code serves as a guidance for workers and employers regarding what management strategies for SARS-CoV-2 are reassuringly realistic. The Regulations for Hazardous Biological Agents govern hazardous biological agents, among which SARS-Cov-2 is one.

As a result of this regulation, employers are legally required to conduct a risk assessment to identify ways to reduce infection and transmission as well as the possibility of a serious illness or death occurring in an employee or another person who may be directly harmed by workplace activities, such as visitors, clients, or contractors.