EDITORIAL Safety
In construction, safety is never optional; it is the foundation of every project. From scaffolding on highrises to rooftop solar installations, compliance guarantees that workers go home safely, clients receive quality work, and costly shutdowns are prevented.
However, navigating South Africa’ s changing regulatory landscape is challenging. Laws change, standards become stricter, and new frameworks appear. Staying informed is crucial for employers, professionals, and workers alike.
This overview covers the latest updates to the Occupational Health and Safety Act( OHSA) No. 85 of 1993, Edition 27, the revised SANS 10085 scaffolding standards, and upcoming changes to the General Safety and Construction Regulations.
Together, they signal the path toward a fully modernised OHSA that will reshape compliance across the industry.
OHSA No. 85 of 1993 – Edition 27 Updates
OHSA remains the foundation of workplace safety. Edition 27 introduces updates to address new risks and technologies.
• Physical Agents Regulations, 2024( GN 5952 of 6 March 2025): Sets stricter thresholds for vibration, radiation, and thermal stress, with mandatory monitoring.
• Noise Exposure Regulations, 2024( GN 5953 of 6 March 2025): Replaces the 2003 NIHL Regulations, introducing lower exposure limits and compulsory noise surveys.
• General Safety Regulations, 2025( GN 5954 of 6 March 2025): Updates rules for equipment, signage, and hazard communication.
• Explosives Regulations, 2024( GN R5048): Tighter controls on handling, storage, and authorisation, particularly for blasting and demolition.
Compliance now requires strong systems for monitoring, training, and record-keeping – not just paperwork but legally binding responsibility.
SANS 10085 – Scaffolding
Scaffolding continues to be a major safety issue. The revised SANS 10085 outlines who is permitted to design these structures.
• Basic designs( tower scaffolds, birdcages, ramps) may only be signed off by competent persons with proven experience.
• Special designs( requiring complex load and stability calculations) must be handled exclusively by technically or professionally qualified designers with scaffolding expertise.
This change has raised costs but greatly improved site safety by eliminating reliance on unqualified personnel.
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