South African National Construction Health and Safety Seminar Conference (360 View)

Diba BES, had the privilege of participating in the 2023 Construction Health and Safety Seminar held in Durban this month, and it was an enlightening experience. The Department of Employment and Labour joined hands with the construction sector to organize this event, driven by the pressing goal of addressing the concerning rates of injuries and fatalities within the industry.
The central theme of the seminar was "Construction Health and Safety," and its overarching objective was to forge strategic collaborations aimed at achieving the "vision zero" target for occupational injuries and diseases. It became evident that the construction industry faces serious challenges in terms of compliance with health and safety regulations, making this event all the more important for our organization.
Edward Khambula, the Chief Director of Provincial Operations for the Department of Employment and Labour, delivered a warm welcome address, setting the tone for the discussions that followed. He was accompanied by key figures such as Milly Ruiters, the Department's Chief Inspector, and Aggy Moiloa, the Department's Inspector-General.
The seminar featured insightful presentations from various stakeholders, including Federated Employers Mutual Assurance (FEM), Sasol, Black Business Council in the Built Environment (BBCBE), Master Builders South Africa (MBSA), and Wilson Bayly Holmes-Ovcon. These presentations covered a diverse range of topics, including legislation, the draft National Infrastructure Plan 2050, contractor compliance, the importance of competence in ensuring professionalism in construction health and safety, occupational hygiene in construction, and the role of local government in construction health and safety.
One of the critical areas of discussion was compensation for injuries and diseases, shedding light on the challenges faced by workers and the need for improvements. Additionally, the seminar addressed broader issues of safety, health, and the environment in the construction industry, as well as emerging trends and challenges.
Overall, Diba BES found the 2023 Construction Health and Safety Seminar to be a significant step toward promoting decent work and enhancing safety in the construction sector. It was a valuable opportunity for our organization to learn, share insights, and work collaboratively with industry peers toward a safer and healthier construction industry for all.