SMD

Annual Report 2023/2024

5. CODE OF CONDUCT The Code of Conduct for Public Servants, as prescribed in Chapter 2 of the Public Service Amendment Regulations of 2023, acts as a guideline to employees about the ethical expectations in their individual conduct and relationships with others. Adherence to the Code of Conduct was instilled through training, and all new officials were required to acknowledge receipt of a copy of the Code of Conduct to ensure compliance.

% Emergency Evacuation Chair was procured and mounted in the DSBD occupied building. % After relocating to the first and ground floors of the DSBD-occupied building (Block G), there has been an improvement in compliance with the OHSA regulations. The OHS hazards that were identified by the Department of Labour inspector are being addressed in collaboration with Facilities and Security Management, the ICT Management Unit, and the dtic (Landlord). % The ADG intervened to address the challenge of some OHS or Wellness Committee members not attending meetings and being unresponsive. % The use of a WhatsApp group for the committee and sending out email reminders helped to improve attendance of meetings. The following risks have been identified while working mainly from home: % Poor ergonomic workstation design while working from home: Most employees working from home use dining room tables and chairs that are not designed for extended use (e.g. daily eight hour working period). % Laptop/tool of trade security: No certainty or assurance about the security of laptops and tools of trade because some colleagues may work from public spaces while working from home. The OHS risk identified in the building includes the following: % Poor housekeeping in the office: Many boxes and files are packed inside the offices which is a fire hazard. The impact on the Department: % Workstation design while working from home: Muscle pain and low back injuries. % Loss of laptops/tools of trade while working in a public space: Financial implications to the employer or the employee. % Poor housekeeping in the office: Fire risks in the building which may cause loss of life, property damage, and loss of information.

6.

HEALTH SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

The Department continues to implement Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) related activities to ensure compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), while following the Hybrid mode of working arrangement. The following activities formed part of OHS and Environmental aspects: % Approval of the Disaster Management or Contingency plan by Tshwane Emergency Services and the Acting Director-General (ADG). % Training of OHS/ Wellness Committee role players (First Aiders, Fire Marshalls/Firefighters, SHE Representatives and Wellness Buddies). % Building inspections for both Pretoria and Cape Town offices were conducted. % Awareness sessions on Compensation for Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA) were conducted in conjunction with Department of Labour representatives. % One active Injury on Duty (IOD) case was managed in conjunction with relevant role players. % Workplace safety awareness and education continued to be rendered through online posters via DSBD Blitz. % Disaster management plan awareness sessions were conducted. % OHS inductions were conducted via the compulsory DSBD Induction Programme. % An Emergency Evacuation Drill was conducted in conjunction with the OHS or Wellness Committee and role players. A drill feedback report was submitted to the ADG for noting.

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Department of Small Business Development • GOVERNANCE • Part C