Safety Representative Training

We find the primary legal requirement for appointing a workplace safety representative in the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OSH Act), Section 17:

"17. (1) Subject to the provisions of subsection (2), every employer who has more than 20 employees in his employment at any workplace, shall, within four months after the commencement of this Act or after commencing business, or from such time as the number of employees exceeds 20, as the case may be, designate in writing for a specified period health and safety representatives for such workplace, or for different sections thereof."

Section 14 further explains that the selection of a safety representative is a nomination process, meaning employees elect and nominate their own representative. This ensures that representatives are chosen by their peers for a role of trust and accountability.

The OSH Act outlines detailed functions of a safety representative in Section 18, covering 18 key responsibilities, including:

• Reviewing the effectiveness of safety measures.
• Examining the causes of workplace incidents.
• Inspecting the workplace for hazards.
• Accompanying Department of Labour inspectors during safety inspections.

It’s not simply a matter of, "Here, you’re a safety rep, now go do your thing." The Act mandates that safety representatives perform specific legal tasks that are critical to maintaining an effective workplace safety system and ensuring the safety of employees.

Section 8.2.e of the OSH Act states that employers must:

"(e) Provide such information, instructions, training and supervision as may be necessary to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety at work of his employees."

This is why we offer a comprehensive safety rep course. Our safety representative training provides representatives with the full scope of their duties, teaching them how to effectively fulfill their legal obligations and understand the importance of their role within the workplace.

From an employer’s perspective, sending your appointed representatives to a certified safety rep course ensures:

• They gain the knowledge needed to perform their duties effectively.
• You have documented proof that you have taken reasonable steps to comply with the law.
• Representatives receive an accredited certificate of competence, reinforcing your workplace’s compliance with legal standards.

Click here to book your safety representative training. Our course is accredited through Saiosh, the South African Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, ensuring that your representatives are trained to the highest standards.

The OSH Act provides specific guidelines:

OSH Act, Section 17.(5):

• For shops and offices: At least one workplace safety representative for every 100 employees (or part thereof).
• For all other workplaces: At least one safety representative for every 50 employees (or part thereof).
• Employees who report to a workplace different from their usual location are deemed to be at the primary workplace for the purpose of determining representation.

Investing in a safety rep course ensures that your organization complies with these legal requirements while promoting a safer work environment for everyone.