An analysis of management's approach to occupational health and safety in the Western Cape chemical sector

Abstract

Employers in South Africa are keen to be referred to as being responsible when dealing with workplace health and safety. However, the poor health and safety record of South African companies generally and especially in the mining and fishing sectors is internationally known. Many observers comment that the picture at plant level does not reflect a commitment and willingness by management to even implement the minimum standards stipulated by legislation without pressure from external sources such as government enforcement agencies or export market pressure. It is well known that the lives of black labourers were worth little during the apartheid era as workers were simply replaced when injured, killed or unable to perform duties due to illness. This legacy still exists today under high unemployment rate in the country does not allow workers the freedom to turn down jobs in high-risk environments or to refuse unsafe tasks. The steady increase of work-related injuries and diseases reported under the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act it came into effect in 1993, is sufficient proof of this sad state of affairs with 289 952 accidents and 3615 occupational diseases reported during the 199711998 financial year. The fatality rate reported in 1996 was 2 220 inclusive of all sectors in the economy. These figures illustrate the need for a new mental model that will value human life irrespective of colour or status in the economy.