The EEA requires employers to take reasonable steps to prevent and respond to sexual harassment within the workplace. The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) has jurisdiction over complaints related to sexual harassment in the workplace. When an employee believes that they have been subjected to sexual harassment, they can refer their complaint to [...]
The workplace is regulated by a set of rules and directives that guide the efficiency of the business and the stability of the employer-employee relationship. Often, when an employee has stepped out of line either by act or omission, the employer may issue a warning. The very essence of a warning is to bring to [...]
A contract of employment can end at the employer’s instance, in the form of a dismissal, or by the employee in the form of a resignation. Although a written resignation is preferred, sometimes the employee refuses to confirm their resignation in writing. Under these circumstances, determining whether the employee has resigned can create confusion for [...]
It often happens when a matter is referred to the CCMA that specific issues in dispute are due to miscommunication or misinterpretation between the parties. This can be easily avoided by giving new employees proper training in their duties and responsibilities. Though challenging at the time, never underestimate the importance of defining roles and responsibilities [...]
The Labour Appeal Court in South African Society of Bank Officials (SASBO) and Another v The Standard Bank Of South Africa Limited and Others JA32/2021 had to decide whether the Labour Court correctly set aside a CCMA award in favour of the employee. Ms Frazenburg was charged with dishonesty in that she falsified the bank's [...]
The word “casual” is not defined by the Basic Conditions of Employment Act. The word employee is, however, defined as follows: “Any person, excluding an independent contractor, who works for another person, or the state, who receives or is entitled to receive remuneration”. The act goes further by defying an employee as “any other person [...]
The Labour Relations Act, under section 186 (2)(a), describes a demotion as an unfair labour practice. The section reads as follows: (2) “Unfair labour practice” means any unfair act or omission that arises between an employer and an employee involving – (a) unfair conduct by the employer relating to the promotion, demotion, probation (excluding disputes [...]
It is generally difficult in these times for a person to retire comfortably, and according to the South African Treasury, it is estimated that only 6 out of 100 South Africans can retire comfortably. In the current state of our economy, it makes it even more difficult. It is sometimes necessary for someone to work [...]
The status of an employee must be established from the beginning of the employment relationship, be it permanent, fixed term or temporary. Once the employee's status has been determined, it is essential to specify the particulars of the employment relationship. Although a written contract is not a prerequisite for a valid employment contract, it is [...]
Sexual harassment is unwanted conduct of a sexual nature. The unwanted nature of sexual harassment distinguishes it from behaviour that is welcome and mutual. In the matter of Solidarity obo B v South African Police Service and Others (P 03/19) [2022] ZALCPE 26, Captain B was employed by the South African Police Service (SAPS). During [...]