Cape Town – The construction industry in South Africa has taken a significant step towards improving worker safety and conditions. A high-level delegation, including representatives from the Department of Employment and Labour, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and industry partners, gathered in Cape Town to sign a Decent Work Movement’s Pledge.
This commitment comes amidst growing concerns about the industry’s safety record. According to ILO Director Jens Christensen, the sector has a global reputation for high rates of injuries and fatalities, with one in five workers succumbing to work-related accidents annually.
“For every worker who dies, the costs are devastating,” Christensen emphasized. “The construction industry is a vital engine of economic growth, but we must prioritize the well-being of those who build our nation.”
The pledge aims to address critical issues such as inadequate training, poor working conditions, and a lack of enforcement of safety regulations. By promoting fair wages, social security, and ethical business practices, the initiative seeks to create a more sustainable and equitable construction sector.
“We believe that by working together, we can make a real difference,” said Milly Ruiters, Chief Inspector for Occupational Health and Safety at the Department of Employment and Labour. “The department is committed to using a combination of advocacy and enforcement to ensure compliance with labour laws.”
The department plans to strengthen its regulatory framework through upcoming amendments to occupational health and safety legislation. These changes will empower workers to refuse dangerous work, further bolstering their rights and safety.
By signing the Decent Work Movement’s Pledge, the construction industry has signalled its intent to prioritize worker safety and create a more humane workplace. This commitment is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic necessity for the sector’s long-term sustainability.