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The Department of Employment and Labour’s joint blitz inspections and raids have resulted in significant outcomes, with the enforcement of monetary corrections totalling over R10 million and the arrest of 81 undocumented workers.
Minister of Employment and Labour, Nomakhosazana Meth, provided an update today during a media briefing on the department’s joint inspections and compliance raids.
Since taking office in July 2024, Meth’s department has intensified nationwide inspections, targeting employers who fail to comply with labour regulations. These efforts aim to protect workers’ rights and improve workplace standards across the country.
Collaborating with the Department of Home Affairs, the Bargaining Council of the Hospitality Sector, and law enforcement agencies, these high-impact blitz inspections focus on ensuring adherence to critical labour laws.
Key Violations and Financial Penalties
“Our inspections have uncovered instances of non-compliance, including underpayment of wages, illegal deductions, and inadequate health and safety measures,” said the Minister. “To date, we have enforced monetary corrections exceeding R10 million, requiring employers to rectify violations and fulfill their obligations to workers.”
Meth highlighted the department’s approach to enforcement as firm yet fair: “Employers found in violation are issued compliance orders with clear deadlines for corrective actions. In cases where immediate health and safety risks are identified, Prohibition Notices are issued to halt hazardous activities until compliance is achieved.”
The blitz inspections were carried out across multiple provinces, with the Western Cape leading with 809 inspections, followed by Gauteng (764), KwaZulu-Natal (535), North West (217), Eastern Cape (82), Free State (69), and Mpumalanga (59). These operations targeted compliance in sectors most at risk of labour law violations.
Addressing Unemployment and Undocumented Workers
South Africa’s unemployment rate, sitting at 33.5%, particularly among youth, remains a significant concern for the department.
“Widespread employment of undocumented foreign nationals raises concerns about exploitation and circumvention of legal hiring practices,” said Meth. “Our administration is committed to addressing these challenges comprehensively and humanely. We are collaborating closely with the Department of Home Affairs to ensure that employment practices comply with immigration laws, and that all workers, regardless of origin, are treated with dignity and fairness.”
Strengthening Enforcement and Expanding Inspectorate
Meth also revealed plans to expand the Department of Labour’s inspectorate capacity from 2,000 to 20,000 inspectors over the next three years, enhancing the department’s ability to conduct more thorough inspections.
“To maximise the impact of our inspections, we will implement a risk-based profiling system to prioritise audits based on identified risks. This will allow us to address high-priority areas more efficiently,” said the Minister.
A specialised compliance framework will also be introduced, with a focus on specific industry segments, ensuring that all regulatory requirements are met holistically.
“Our enforcement strategy is about more than just punishing violators. It’s about fostering social justice and ensuring every worker’s rights are protected,” Meth said. “Fair labour practices lead to improved morale, productivity, and a stronger economy.”
Support for Businesses: TERS, Productivity SA, and CCMA
Beyond enforcement, the department is also extending support to businesses through services such as the Temporary Employer/Employee Relief Scheme (TERS) and Productivity SA, which offers free productivity services. These initiatives aim to help businesses in financial distress and improve their operational efficiency.
Additionally, the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA) provides mediation services to resolve workplace disputes.
Operation Yazini: Raising Awareness
As part of Meth’s 100-day programme, the department is launching Operation Yazini, an initiative aimed at raising awareness about employment rights and compliance. This outreach effort seeks to inform both employers and employees of their rights and obligations under the law.
“Through Operation Yazini, we will bring the department’s services closer to communities, helping them better understand their legal rights and responsibilities,” said Meth.
A Call for Collective Action
Meth concluded by calling for nationwide collaboration between employers, unions, and civil society to create a fair and safe labour market.
“I urge all stakeholders, businesses, unions, civil society organisations, and fellow citizens to join us in creating a labour market characterised by fairness, safety, and mutual respect,” she said.
As the department continues its inspections, it remains committed to transparency, social justice, and protecting workers’ rights across South Africa.