The Department of Employment and Labour will bring together government, employers, organised labour and occupational health experts for a two-day symposium aimed at strengthening workplace health and safety and addressing occupational risks.
The Occupational Health and Hygiene Symposium, scheduled for 12 and 13 November 2026 at the ANEW Hotel and Convention Centre in Benoni, Gauteng, will be held under the theme: “Hidden Hazards: Integrating Science, Prevention and Safety to Address Occupational Risks”.
The event is expected to attract approximately 500 delegates in person and a further 1 000 virtual participants, providing a platform for stakeholders to exchange knowledge, showcase innovative technologies and explore practical solutions to improve occupational health and hygiene in South African workplaces.
The symposium is organised by the department, through its Inspection and Enforcement Services branch, in collaboration with the Compensation Fund, Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company, the National Institute for Occupational Health and Rand Mutual Assurance.
The two-day programme will include technical presentations, discussions on surveillance evidence, competent persons’ responsibilities and practical sessions focusing on occupational exposures and emerging workplace risks.
The engagement aims to improve regulatory compliance and promote safer, healthier and more resilient working environments.
It will also support the implementation of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, the Physical Agents Regulations, the Noise Exposure Regulations and other occupational health legislation.
The symposium forms part of Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth's Occupational Health and Safety Month campaign and contributes to broader national and international development objectives, including the National Development Plan 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Ahead of the symposium, a one-day workshop will be held for shop stewards to strengthen the capacity of employee representatives to identify occupational health hazards and support compliance with workplace safety requirements. – SAnews.gov.za
