Durban: The Department of Employment and Labour’s Compensation Fund has issued a call for enhanced compliance with the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA) among employers in the building, electrical, and construction sectors.

According to South African Government News Agency, this initiative follows a Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases (COID) Sector Workshop held in Durban. The workshop, conducted on Tuesday, aimed to enhance the submission of Return of Earnings (ROEs), improve assessment payments, and educate industry stakeholders about their legal duties.

The primary objective of the Act is to provide compensation for disablement resulting from occupational injuries or diseases sustained or contracted by employees, including compensation for death resulting from such incidents. The Act also addresses related matters.

During the session, KwaZulu-Natal Deputy Director for COID Services, Jabulani Gumede, expressed gratitude to employers for their participation and emphasized that adherence to COIDA is a legal obligation to prevent workplace injuries and occupational diseases.

Vusi Maluleke, Deputy Director for Employer Services, outlined employers’ essential responsibilities, such as registration, record-keeping, and timely ROE submissions. He stressed the importance of registering domestic workers and verifying Letters of Good Standing to prevent fraudulent activities.

Nontsikelelo Mhlonyane, KwaZulu-Natal Assistant Director for COID Services, detailed employer duties when employees suffer injuries or illness. She reminded employers to report all workplace accidents to the Fund within seven days, and occupational diseases within 14 days of diagnosis. She also discussed injury-on-duty leave management, COID benefits, additional pensions, and fatal cases.

The Compensation Fund has committed to ongoing engagement with various sectors to reinforce compliance and ensure enhanced worker protection.