On 06 December 2019, the new Ergonomics Regulations, 2019 were published by the Minister of Employment and Labour in the Government Gazette, in terms of section 43 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, 1993 (the "OHASA"). These regulations came into operation on the date of publication in the Government Gazette.

Explanatory notes were simultaneously published in the Government Gazette (as an annexure to the new Ergonomics Regulations, 2019) with a view to provide practical insight to all stakeholders (such as employers, employees and the public) who are responsible for, or concerned with, the control and prevention of exposure to ergonomic risks, meaning a characteristic or action in the workplace, workplace conditions, or a combination thereof that may impair overall system performance and human well being in a workplace. These notes must be read and interpreted in conjunction with the OHASA and the Ergonomics Regulations, 2019. 

Click here to view a copy of the new regulations and explanatory notes.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.