​[KNYSNA, WESTERN CAPE] The Department of Employment and Labour in the Western Cape closed the doors of several employers in Knysna in the Southern Cape this week.

On Thursday, 25 June, it was a reality check for some non-compliant employers in Knysna who were served with prohibition notices after the Inspectorate found them to be in contravention of the Occupational Health and Safety Act no. 85 of 1993. 　Inspections were conducted after a number of complaints were received citing non-compliance with COVID-19 regulations.

The Inspectorate conducted ten inspections in Knysna central business district on Thursday, and served notices to six out of the ten employers.　 Checkers, Clicks and Spar were among the employers to receive full or partial prohibition notices.　 Prohibition notices essentially means that no work may take place at any of the areas where notices were served.　 　

According to David Esau, Provincial Chief Inspector, one of the biggest concerns was the non-reporting of positive cases.　 "Where there is no reporting, there is no tracing being done and therefore also no evidence of decontamination.　 Knysna is fast becoming a hotspot with over 100 cases already confirmed, all role-players need to play their part when its comes to slowing the spread of the disease".　 He went on to say, "As part of reversing the prohibition notice, the employer must provide proof that the affected areas have been sufficiently disinfected and present evidence that processes have been put in place to address all the concerns raised", he said.

Esau confirmed that the focus will now shift to responding to complaints at various workplaces and encouraged workers to come forward to report non compliance.　 "The Department is working closely with all partners to ensure compliance and prevent the spread of the disease at workplaces. The intention is not to permanently close businesses, but to get businesses to adhere to the COVID-19 regulations as set out in the law", he said. 　

A follow-up visit will be conducted by the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) inspectors once the employers have confirmed that all minimum standards have been put in place to ensure the safety of both employees and clients. If the inspectors are satisfied with the efforts of the respective employers, the prohibition notices will be lifted.

OHS inspectors will continue to visit workplaces in the area to monitor compliance, act on tip-offs and implement the necessary actions where required.