Decent work is a movement, a movement for promoting labour rights and improving business productivity

The Department of Employment and Labour (DEL), together with its social partners, the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (FEM), and the Compensation Fund (CF), have united to support labour rights and ethical business practices in the construction sector.

This collaborative effort launches a nationwide initiative aimed at promoting decent work for all in South Africa's construction industry. The partnership focuses on advancing labour rights, eliminating exploitative practices, and enhancing productivity in a sector vital to the country's economic growth.

The recently signed Construction Health and Safety Accord plays a vital role in advancing the Decent Work agenda in the sector. This agreement between the

Government, Organised Labour, and Organised Business aims to create safer, healthier working environments. It also promotes collaboration among all parties to prioritise

workers' safety while enhancing business efficiency.

The construction sector is one of the largest employers in South Africa, generating thousands of jobs annually. However, it is also an industry where decent work challenges, such as safety risks, informal labour practices, and wage exploitation, are prevalent. The objective of this initiative is to change this narrative by promoting fair,

compliant, and fulfilling work conditions for construction workers, while simultaneously boosting productivity for businesses.

Decent Work advocates for employment that respects the dignity, safety, and rights of all workers. It defines decent work in the construction sector as employment that is fulfilling, compliant with regulations, and free from exploitation.

Establishing a foundation for meaningful transformation within the construction sector, the Decent Work in Construction campaign promotes:

• Advocacy efforts aimed at raising awareness among employers, workers, and the public about the importance of decent work. This includes ensuring all stakeholders understand their rights and responsibilities in creating fair and productive workplaces.
• Regular workplace inspections to ensure compliance with labour standards and health and safety regulations. There will be an increase in inspections within the industry to ensure companies adhere to legal requirements, safeguarding workers' rights and well-being.
• Strict enforcement of labour laws, with DEL and its social partners holding violators accountable and ensuring corrective actions are swiftly implemented. This will deter exploitative practices and encourage ethical business conduct.
• Capacity building through regular training programmes, workshops, and other resources to empower both employers and workers. Businesses will improve compliance and productivity, while workers will gain skills for personal

development and job security.

As part of the national drive to promote Decent Work in Construction, DEL, ILO, FEM, and CF encourage the public and all construction industry stakeholders —including

employers, workers, and unions — to join the movement by signing the Decent Work in Construction Pledge. By signing, businesses and individuals commit to promoting fair, safe, and compliant working conditions. Workers and the public are also urged to report any instances of exploitation, non-compliance, or unsafe conditions to their nearest labour centre. These reports will help identify and address unfair practices, ensuring workers' rights are upheld.

To further support the Decent Work initiative, DEL, in partnership with key stakeholders and social partners, will embark on a roadshow aimed at directly engaging stakeholders and the public. The events are open to all construction industry participants, including business owners, employees, unions, and the general public.

The roadshow will feature the following stops:

Stop 1:

City: Cape Town, Western Cape

Date: Wednesday, 30 October 2024

Time: 10:30 for 11:00 – 16:00

Venue: Aspired Country Manor in Philippi

Stop 2:

City: George, Western Cape

Date: Friday, 1 November 2024

Time: 10:30 for 11:00 – 16:00

Venue: Protea Hotel King George

These events provide opportunities for stakeholders to interact, learn more about the importance of decent work, get involved in the movement, and discover available resources. Each roadshow stop will feature informative presentations, interactive sessions, and the opportunity to sign the Decent Work in Construction Pledge.

Promoting decent work in the construction industry is not just about protecting workers' rights — it is about building a stronger, more productive future for South Africa. The benefits of decent work extend beyond individual workers, helping businesses thrive,

reducing turnover, and enhancing overall industry productivity.

The Department of Employment and Labour, together with its social partners, is

committed to making the construction sector a model of how decent work can drive economic growth while ensuring fairness, safety, and compliance.

Together, we can build a construction industry where decent work is the foundation for success.

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Media is encouraged to attend the sessions.

To confirm attendance for the pledge signing or arrange media interviews at the roadshows, please contact Mr. Bongani Gxekwa at 072 675 3372 or email Bongani@zizidigital.co.za.​

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