On 22 June 2022, Doctor M. J. Phaala, Minister of Health, terminated certain sections of the National Health Act, which were in effect to combat the spread of COVID-19 in our communities.
Since the repeal of these sections of the Act, we received several queries from members uncertain about which measures still apply in the workplace.
To clarify uncertainty, take note of the following:
- It is not compulsory to wear a face mask in an indoor public space.
- The restrictions on both indoor and outdoor gatherings are repealed.
- The provisions concerning international travel into South Africa are no longer in effect.
This does not mean that all regulations regarding the management of COVID-19 in the workplace are repealed.
The Hazardous Biological Agents Regulations and the measures for COVID-19 in the workplace regulated by the Code of Good Practice are critical and are still in force and effect.
Therefore, risk assessments need to be kept updated and The Hazardous Biological Agents Regulations and the Code of Good Practice, as communicated earlier, still dictates the response of the business regarding, ventilation, sanitizing, and so forth. For further detail in this regard, go to https://www.rmi.org.za/introduction-of-legislation-regarding-hazardous-biological-agents/ .
Should the risk assessment reveal that the employer does not require the wearing of masks anymore, the workplace plans must be revisited, and the necessary changes must be made.
Please contact your regional IR Specialist for any queries in this regard: IR Contacts – Retail Motor Industry Organisation (rmi.org.za)
