EDITORIAL Safety
Future updates: General Safety and Construction Regulations
South Africa’ s solar boom has led to updates in the General Safety Regulations. Installations must now follow SANS 10142( electrical) and SANS 10400( structural and fire safety).
Systems require Certificates of Compliance, approved inverters, and registration with Eskom or local municipalities. For example, in Cape Town, a sign-off from an ECSA professional is also necessary.
The Draft Construction Regulations 2025 take accountability further. Key features include:
• Stricter construction work permit applications for projects exceeding 365 days.
• Mandatory site-specific health and safety specifications, with clients held accountable for their preparation.
• Continuous risk assessments, reviewed annually or after significant design changes.
• Acceptance of digital health and safety files for improved record-keeping.
• A new appointment: the Construction Health and Safety Manager to oversee projects.
• Expanded focus on ergonomics and improved worker welfare standards.
Designers will also assume greater responsibility, particularly in excavation planning, underscoring the shared duty of all stakeholders.
Towards a new OHSA
All these changes are moving toward a completely revised Occupational Health and Safety Act. The new framework will unify scattered updates, strengthen enforcement, clarify stakeholders ' roles, and align with international safety standards.
Staying ahead
The pace of regulatory change is accelerating. From scaffolding oversight to solar compliance, from digital files to increased client accountability, the message is clear: safety is evolving – and compliance must keep pace.
For industry players, this includes investing in training, promoting professional collaboration, and integrating safety into project planning from the start.
The benefit? Fewer injuries, better compliance, and a construction industry that is safer, smarter, and more resilient. ■ www. sabuildingreview. co. za 65