A nationwide pledge aimed at creating safer, healthier working environments for those working in the construction sector is set to be signed this week.

The Department of Employment and Labour said the Decent Work in Construction Pledge will be signed at roadshows in Cape Town on Wednesday, 30th October 2024 and in George on Friday, 1st November 2024. Wednesday’s roadshow will take place at the Aspired Country Manor in Philippi and Friday’s roadshow will take place at the Protea Hotel King George.

“Each roadshow stop will feature informative presentations, interactive sessions, and the opportunity to sign the Decent Work in Construction Pledge.”

The department and its partners, including the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (FEM) and the Compensation Fund (CF), have united to support labour rights and ethical business practices in the construction sector.

The partnership focuses on advancing labour rights, eliminating exploitative practices and enhancing productivity in a sector that is vital to the country’s economic growth. The recently signed Construction Health and Safety Accord plays a vital role in advancing the decent work agenda in the sector.

This agreement between government, organised labour and organised business aims to create safer, healthier working environments.

It also promotes collaboration among all parties to prioritise workers’ safety while enhancing business efficiency.

“The construction sector is one of the largest employers in South Africa, generating thousands of jobs annually. However, it is also an industry where decent work challenges, such as safety risks, informal labour practices and wage exploitation, are prevalent,” the department said

“The objective of this initiative is to change this narrative by promoting fair, compliant, and fulfilling work conditions for construction workers, while simultaneously boosting productivity for businesses

“Decent Work advocates for employment that respects the dignity, safety, and rights of all workers. It defines decent work in the construction sector as employment that is fulfilling, compliant with regulations, and free from exploitation,” the department explained.

Establishing a foundation for meaningful transformation within the construction sector, the Decent Work in Construction campaign promotes:

• Advocacy efforts aimed at raising awareness among employers, workers, and the public about the importance of decent work. This includes ensuring all stakeholders understand their rights and responsibilities in creating fair and productive workplaces.
• Regular workplace inspections to ensure compliance with labour standards and health and safety regulations. There will be an increase in inspections within the industry to ensure companies adhere to legal requirements, safeguarding workers’ rights and well-being.
• Strict enforcement of labour laws, with DEL and its social partners holding violators accountable and ensuring corrective actions are swiftly implemented. This will deter exploitative practices and encourage ethical business conduct.
• Capacity building through regular training programmes, workshops, and other resources to empower both employers and workers. Businesses will improve compliance and productivity, while workers will gain skills for personal development and job security.

“By signing, businesses and individuals commit to promoting fair, safe, and compliant working conditions. Workers and the public are also urged to report any instances of exploitation, non-compliance, or unsafe conditions to their nearest labour centre,” the department said.

These reports will help identify and address unfair practices, ensuring workers’ rights are upheld.

The department said the benefits of decent work extend beyond individual workers, helping businesses thrive, reducing turnover, and enhancing overall industry productivity.

Originally posted on SAnews.gov.za