⚖️ Compliance Blitz: South Africa’s Labour Inspections
13 Aug 2025
In recent months, the Department of Employment and Labour has intensified its nationwide blitz inspections — and the results are sobering. From underpayment of wages to unsafe working conditions, nearly half of the 2,700 companies inspected were found to be non-compliant. Over R10 million in monetary corrections have been enforced, and 81 undocumented workers were arrested.
🚨 What’s Driving the Blitz?
Minister Nomakhosazana Meth, who assumed office in July 2024, has made it clear: these inspections are about restoring dignity to South Africa’s workforce. Partnering with Home Affairs, SAPS, and sectoral bargaining councils, the Department is targeting violations of key legislation including:
- Basic Conditions of Employment Act
- National Minimum Wage Act
- Occupational Health and Safety Act
- Employment Services Act
The Western Cape, Gauteng, and KwaZulu-Natal have seen the highest inspection volumes, with infractions ranging from unlawful deductions to lack of PPE and poor safety signage.
🧭 What This Means for Employers
For employers, this is a moment of reflection and recalibration. Compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties — it’s about building trust, protecting workers, and aligning with the values that define a fair and sustainable workplace.
At openHR, we believe compliance should be proactive, not reactive. That means:
- Conducting regular internal audits
- Ensuring employment contracts and wage structures meet legal standards
- Prioritising health and safety with designated reps and proper risk assessments
- Verifying documentation and work permits for all employees
🌍 Compliance as a Catalyst for Change
South Africa’s unemployment rate hovers around 33.5%, with youth disproportionately affected. Ethical employment practices — from fair wages to safe conditions — are not just legal obligations; they’re social imperatives. As openHR scales globally, we remain committed to SDG #8: promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment, and decent work for all.
✅ South African Workplace Compliance Checklist
📄 Employment Contracts & Documentation
- Ensure all employees have signed, legally compliant contracts
- Include job descriptions, working hours, leave entitlements, and termination clauses
- Verify work permits and documentation for foreign nationals
💰 Wage & Payroll Compliance
- Pay at least the National Minimum Wage (R28.79/hour as of March 2025)
- Provide itemised payslips with all required details (as per BCEA)
- Avoid unlawful deductions and ensure transparency in all payroll transactions
- Submit and pay EMP201/PAYE returns on time (usually by the 7th of each month)
🧯 Health & Safety Standards
- Appoint Health & Safety Representatives (for workplaces with 20+ employees)
- Conduct regular risk assessments and maintain safety signage
- Provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) where required
- Comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act
🛡️ UIF, COIDA & SDL Submissions
- Register and contribute to the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF)
- Submit Return of Earnings (ROE) annually to the Compensation Fund
- Ensure Skills Development Levy (SDL) is calculated and paid correctly
🔐 POPIA & PAIA Compliance
- Appoint and register an Information Officer via BizPortal
- Submit PAIA reports annually
- Implement data protection policies and employee consent protocols
🕵️ Internal Audits & Training
- Conduct quarterly internal compliance audits
- Train managers and HR staff on labour laws and ethical practices
- Use openHR’s free tools to generate reports, payslips, COIDA forms, EMP201 reports and UIF 1-click submissions.
