The Department of Labour has praised the Saaiman Boerdery farm, for responding positively to labour inspectors' law enforcement by correcting the working conditions of its workers.
The inspectors visited the potato producing farm in Bainsvlei outside
Bloemfontein recently and halted operations of potato packaging, after the employer who has about 50 workers in his employ, was found not complying with labour laws.
During a follow up inspection at the workplace, labour inspectors found a considerable improvement with all workers provided proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and dangerous machinery properly safe guarded as well as safe ablution facilities for the workers.
The employer has also registered for Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA) and the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) and has put in place a clocking system for all workers to work normal working hours, workers are paid the minimum wage as stipulated by the legislation, working contracts were all signed and pay slip books was made available at the workplace.
The labour inspectors had earlier issued prohibition notices on the use of all sorting and packaging machinery until proper induction training is conducted to workers using the machines and all dangerous machines are safeguarded.
A period of up to 21 days was given to the employer to correct the contraventions and undertakings issued for not complying with Occupational Health and Safety Act and the sectoral determination for farm workers.
Enquiries:
Wisane Mavasa
Cell: 082 806 1351
Issued by: Department of Labour
28 April 2010
