Labour Department’s Inspections Recover Over R10M and Address Unemployment

The blitz inspections covered all major regions, with the Western Cape leading the way with 809 inspections, followed by Gauteng (764) and KwaZulu-Natal (535).

The Department of Employment and Labour's joint blitz inspections have yielded major results, enforcing over R10 million in monetary corrections and arresting 81 undocumented workers. Minister of Employment and Labour, Nomakhosazana Meth, announced these findings during a media briefing, highlighting the department’s ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with labour laws and protect workers' rights across South Africa.

Since assuming office in July 2024, Meth has spearheaded nationwide inspections aimed at cracking down on non-compliant employers. In collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs, the Hospitality Sector Bargaining Council, and law enforcement, these high-impact inspections have focused on violations such as underpayment of wages, illegal deductions, and unsafe working conditions.

“Our inspections revealed various instances of non-compliance, and we have enforced over R10 million in monetary corrections, compelling employers to meet their obligations,” Meth stated.

Widespread Inspections and Compliance Raids

The blitz inspections covered all major regions, with the Western Cape leading the way with 809 inspections, followed by Gauteng (764) and KwaZulu-Natal (535). Other provinces, including the North West, Eastern Cape, Free State, and Mpumalanga, were also inspected.

The inspections targeted sectors with high risks of non-compliance, enforcing laws like the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, National Minimum Wage Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, and Unemployment Insurance Act.

Meth emphasised that employers found in violation are issued compliance orders, and in cases of immediate safety risks, Prohibition Notices are issued to halt hazardous activities.

Addressing Unemployment and the Issue of Undocumented Workers

Meth expressed deep concern over South Africa’s 33.5% unemployment rate, particularly among the youth. She also addressed the widespread employment of undocumented foreign nationals, which raises concerns about exploitation and non-compliance with legal hiring practices.

“We are committed to ensuring that employment practices comply with immigration laws and that all workers are treated with dignity,” Meth said. The department is collaborating closely with Home Affairs to address these issues.

Expanding Inspectorate Capacity and Strengthening Enforcement

Meth outlined plans to increase the department’s inspectorate capacity from 2,000 to 20,000 inspectors over the next three years. This will enable more frequent and thorough inspections. The department will also introduce risk-based profiling to target sectors where violations are most prevalent.

The new approach will integrate risk profiling with a segment-focused compliance framework, ensuring that all regulatory requirements are met in a holistic manner.

Supporting Businesses and Workers

The Department of Employment and Labour is not only focused on enforcement but also on supporting businesses. Programs like the Temporary Employer/Employee Relief Scheme (TERS) and free productivity services from Productivity SA aim to help businesses in financial distress, while the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA) offers mediation to resolve workplace disputes.

Operation Yazini: Public Awareness Campaign

As part of Meth’s 100-day programme, the department will launch "Operation Yazini" to raise awareness about employment rights, labour laws, and compliance assistance. This initiative aims to educate both employers and employees, bringing the department closer to communities.

Meth concluded with a call for collective action, urging businesses, unions, and civil society to work together to create a fair, safe, and compliant labour market.

The department remains committed to transparency, protecting workers’ rights, and promoting social justice across South Africa.