A recent government inspection at Africa Steel and Tube in Ekurhuleni, South Africa, has uncovered alleged undocumented workers and safety breaches. Employment and Labour Deputy Minister Jomo Sibiya stated that an alleged leak of information about the unannounced inspection led to over 100 suspected undocumented foreign nationals failing to report for work. The inspection was part of a joint compliance operation involving multiple government departments and agencies. Authorities plan to return to the company to verify the information.
According to Deputy Minister Sibiya, employees interviewed during the inspection confirmed that a large number of foreign nationals had worked at the company the previous day but were told not to report for duty after the leak. While earlier reports suggested the number could be around 200, Sibiya later confirmed that over 100 people had allegedly been absent. He warned that employers found deliberately employing undocumented foreign nationals would face action. The government aims to address the issue of undocumented labour and hold employers accountable.
The inspection also uncovered alleged labour and occupational safety violations at Africa Steel and Tube. Inspectors found concerns over overtime and weekend payments, including workers allegedly being underpaid for work performed on Saturdays and Sundays. Sibiya stated that the company was not paying employees the minimum wage and was underpaying them for Sundays and Saturdays. This has raised concerns about worker exploitation.
Officials halted the use of some equipment over safety concerns, including a damaged crane and forklifts operated by untrained personnel. Inspectors also identified concerns relating to the company’s electrical installation compliance. The government has emphasized the need for employers to prioritize worker safety and adhere to labour regulations.
Deputy Home Affairs Minister Njabulo Nzuza stated that the operation aimed not only to address undocumented foreign nationals but also to target employers who created demand for undocumented labour. He emphasized that cutting the demand for illegal labour was crucial, as it would reduce the supply of undocumented workers. The government plans to enforce the law and impose consequences on employers who hire undocumented workers.
Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza revealed that Africa Steel and Tube owed the municipality about R3 million for electricity but had entered into a payment arrangement. He stressed the importance of businesses maintaining regular payments to prevent municipal debts from escalating. The municipality is also checking businesses for compliance with zoning, land-use, building-control, and by-law requirements.
The joint operation involving multiple government departments and agencies demonstrates the government's commitment to addressing labour and safety issues in the country. Africa Steel and Tube will face consequences for alleged undocumented workers and safety breaches. The company will need to take corrective action to address these concerns and ensure compliance with labour regulations.
Key points
- The inspection uncovered alleged undocumented workers and safety breaches at Africa Steel and Tube.
- The company faces action for allegedly employing undocumented foreign nationals and violating labour regulations.
- The government aims to address the issue of undocumented labour and hold employers accountable.
