– by Nkosingiphile Ntshangase
After the World Health Organisation declared the COVID-19 pandemic, there seemed to be a newfound appreciation for safety. Additional safety protocols were quickly adopted in workplaces across the country in light of COVID-19, such as maintaining two meters distance between employees and patrons, the requirement to wear masks, and additional sanitary procedures. By reimagining their workplaces, many employers allow their staff to work remotely or have constructed physical protective barriers in office workspaces. As a result of the pandemic, society’s resiliency showed, and everyone did their best to keep each other safe. Unfortunately, an employee’s workplace injury or fatality has devastating consequences on the organisation and has the potential to affect co-workers, families, and the wider community.
This year’s enhanced focus on workplace safety presents an opportunity to improve health and safety in our workplaces long after the COVID-19 pandemic has passed and when we return to normalcy. As an employer, you need to remain updated with the guidance and regulations from the Government. Employers need to ensure that workplace control measures to mitigate the transmission of the virus and other threats in the workplace continue to be enforced and maintained.
As much as your morning coffee or evening routine, developing a safety-first culture should be part of your daily routine. There should also be an emphasis on the recovery process. Due to the requirements for businesses to have a COVID-19 protocol observed, there has been a more balanced approach to health and safety management.
UKZN Extended Learning offers a course that can assist with these health and safety business requirements. The upcoming intake for the Safety, Health and Environment Management Programme starts on the 14th of September 2021. If you would like to secure your place or find out more information about this programme, please click here.
You can also contact us directly for more information:
Percy Sishi
T: +27 31 260 1853