By now, most people are aware of measures prescribed by the World Health Organisation to help prevent the spread of Covid-19. However, given the phased reopening of the South African economy, it is prudent to consider the health and safety protections afforded employees through existing legislation, as well as the legal obligations of employers. “In terms of both the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and the Mine Health and Safety Act (MHSA), employers’ responsibilities regarding the physical wellbeing of their employees are not absolute – the responsibilities are qualified with reference to ‘reasonably practicable steps”,” notes Eversheds Sutherland mining and infrastructure head Warren Beech.
