September 21, 2024

The effects of allergies, asthma and hay fever in the workplace during Spring

As spring arrives in South Africa, it brings not only warmer weather and blossoming flowers but also an increase in seasonal allergies, asthma and hay fever. For many individuals, spring can be a challenging time due to the prevalence of pollen and other allergens in the air. These allergens can affect employees’ health and, consequently, […]

The importance of checklists for health and safety compliance

Under section 8(2)d of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, 85 of 1993: General duties of employers to their employees states: “establishing, as far as is reasonably practicable, what hazards to the health or safety of persons are attached to any work which is performed, any article or substance which is produced, processed, used, handled, […]

Health concerns of hand towels and dryers in public places

Poor handwashing and hand drying can significantly increase the spread of infectious diseases, including gastrointestinal and respiratory infections, as well as skin and eye infections. Inadequate hand hygiene allows pathogens (Pathogens are microorganisms that cause disease in humans, animals, or plants. They include bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, and prions. Pathogens invade a host, multiply, and […]

Enhancing OHS compliance via external audits

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) is a critical component of workplace management in South Africa. The primary aim is to ensure that employees operate in a safe environment, mitigating risks and preventing workplace injuries and illnesses. One of the essential mechanisms to uphold OHS standards is through external audits. These audits offer an objective evaluation […]

The impact of workplace bullying on health and safety

In the modern workplace, a growing emphasis is placed on fostering a positive environment. Despite these efforts, workplace bullying remains a pervasive issue that can have profound impacts on employees’ health and safety. Understanding and addressing this issue is crucial for creating a healthier, safer, and more productive workplace. Identifying a workplace bully can be […]