The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) has called on the government to intervene following the tragic death of a worker at a Sedibeng-based steel plant. Numsa has requested the Department of Employment and Labour to conduct an investigation into the health and safety standards and alleged exploitation of workers at SA Steel Mills.
The union’s general-secretary, Irvin Jim, expressed deep concern over the incident that resulted in the death of Seomogelo Mkhondwane, who was fatally crushed by a pressing machine. Numsa further accused management of racial discrimination and the exploitation of workers, highlighting the traumatic experience faced by employees who were forced to continue working shortly after the incident.
Numsa has presented several demands to address the issues at SA Steel Mills. These include allowing workers to elect safety representatives who can be trained in health and safety protocols, appointing a full-time health and safety shop steward elected by the workers, and ensuring compliance with labor laws by refraining from employing undocumented foreign nationals.
The union’s letter to the Department of Employment and Labour, the Steel and Engineering Industries Federation of Southern Africa (Seifsa), and the Metal and Engineering Industries Bargaining Council (MEIBC) earlier this year raised concerns about the company’s alleged exploitation of workers, disregard for health and safety standards, and failure to provide adequate personal protective equipment (PPE). Numsa also accused the company of withholding overtime pay and paying workers below industry standards.
In response, SA Steel Mills dismissed the allegations as “opportunistic” and denied the claim that only a limited number of South Africans were employed. The company stated its compliance with legislation and statutes, asserting its commitment to the well-being of its workers and their access to sufficient protective gear. SA Steel Mills highlighted its membership with Rand Mutual Assurance (RMA), an insurance company that covers all work-related injuries, ensuring employees receive comprehensive medical treatment.
In an attempt to address the concerns raised by Numsa, the management of SA Steel Mills will meet with the union on Monday. The outcome of this meeting will shed light on the steps that will be taken to improve health and safety conditions and address the alleged exploitation of workers at the steel mill.
Source:
https://www.news24.com/fin24/companies/numsa-calls-for-intervention-over-alleged-exploitation-at-sa-steel-mills-after-worker-crushed-to-death-20230715
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