Workplace safety isn’t just about following protocols, it’s about protecting lives and ensuring everyone gets home safely. The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act, No. 85 of 1993) is designed to do just that. Its purpose is to create work environments that are free from risks of harm, requiring employers to identify hazards, assess risks, and take steps to mitigate them. By adhering to this legislation, businesses not only avoid legal trouble but also foster safer, healthier, and more productive workplaces. In the blog below, we explore who the OHS Act protects and why compliance is vital for everyone involved.

Who Does the OHS Act Protect?
The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act, No. 85 of 1993) plays an essential role in creating safer work environments and protecting a wide range of individuals. Its provisions extend beyond the workplace, ensuring the well-being of employees, employers, and even the public.
Employees are at the heart of the OHS Act’s protections. It guarantees their right to work in an environment free from hazards that could cause injury, illness, or undue stress. By enforcing safety standards, the Act empowers employees to perform their duties with confidence in their well-being.
Employers also benefit from the OHS Act. It offers clear guidelines for maintaining compliance with workplace safety standards. By identifying risks, implementing safety measures, and conducting regular inspections, employers can avoid legal repercussions, reduce accidents, and foster a more productive and harmonious work environment.
The Public, including clients, contractors, and visitors, receives indirect protection under the OHS Act. By mandating safe practices in workplaces, the Act reduces risks for anyone who interacts with or is affected by workplace activities.
Ultimately, the OHS Act ensures that everyone, from employees to the broader public, can feel safer and more secure in and around work environments. For this to be a reality, there are different entities who must comply with the OHS Act, let’s identify these below.
Who Must Comply with the OHS Act?
The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act, No. 85 of 1993) is a comprehensive framework designed to ensure safe work environments, and compliance is mandatory for several key stakeholders.
Employers bear the primary responsibility for workplace safety. They must implement safety measures, conduct regular risk assessments, and provide appropriate training to employees. Additionally, they must ensure the work environment is free from hazards that could lead to injury or illness. By adhering to these requirements, employers not only comply with the Health and Safety Act but also protect their workforce and business operations.
Employees also play an essential role in maintaining workplace safety. They are expected to follow established safety protocols, use equipment responsibly, and report any hazards or unsafe conditions to their employer. Compliance with these responsibilities helps minimise risks and promotes a safer work environment for all.
Suppliers and Manufacturers have obligations under the OHS Act as well. They must ensure that all equipment, materials, and substances they provide meet safety standards and include clear instructions for safe use.
By working together, employers, employees, and suppliers contribute to the Act’s overarching goal of fostering health and safety in every workplace. Let’s take a more in-depth look at how the OHS Act reduces risks.
How the OHS Act Reduces Risks
The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act) is designed to minimise workplace health issues, accidents, and incidents through proactive measures and structured processes. By enforcing specific requirements, the Act helps businesses create safer environments for everyone involved.
A key component of risk management under the OHS Act is conducting regular risk assessments. Employers are mandated to identify potential hazards, evaluate their severity, and implement measures to mitigate them. This ongoing process ensures that risks are addressed promptly, reducing the likelihood of accidents and incidents.
The Act also emphasises the importance of collaboration through the establishment of safety committees. These committees serve as a platform for identifying and addressing ongoing risks, ensuring that safety remains a continuous priority in the workplace. By involving representatives from different roles, businesses can maintain a comprehensive approach to risk reduction. Training programs are another critical element mandated by the OHS Act. Employees must be educated on safe practices, proper equipment use, and emergency response procedures. This ensures they are equipped to prevent or manage potential hazards effectively, fostering a culture of safety and accountability.
By integrating these measures, the OHS Act significantly reduces risks, promoting healthier and safer workplaces across industries.
Conclusion
From the above, it is clear that the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act) is more than just a set of regulations – it’s a framework designed to protect everyone connected to the workplace. By fostering safer, healthier environments, the Act safeguards employees, employers, and even the public from potential harm. Its emphasis on collaboration and accountability ensures that risks are minimised, health issues are addressed, and accidents and incidents are reduced. To take the next step in building a safer workplace, explore Absolute Health Service’s comprehensive compliance training and risk assessment services. Partner with us to ensure your workplace meets the highest safety standards and protects what matters most—your people.