Contractor and Supplier Management in the Trade and Commerce Sector

Contractors and Suppliers

The Importance of Contractor and Supplier Management in the South African Trade and Commerce Industrial Sector

Managing contractors and suppliers is critical in South Africa's trade and commerce sectors. This ensures not only the safety and health of workers but also the smooth operation and reputation of businesses. Here’s an overview of the importance of contractor and supplier management, relevant legislation, roles and responsibilities, potential consequences of non-compliance, and the services offered by MAKROSAFE to facilitate this process.

Importance of Contractor and Supplier Safety Management

Shared Responsibility for Safety: Both employers and contractors share legal responsibilities for a safe work environment. Proper management minimises risks and legal liabilities.
Protecting Your Reputation: Incidents involving contractors can damage your company’s reputation and stakeholder trust. A strong safety program shows commitment to safety and enhances your brand image.
Preventing Workplace Disruptions: Accidents can lead to operational delays, financial losses, and reduced productivity. Effective safety management ensures continuous operations and minimises downtime.

Legislation Governing Contractor and Supplier Safety

In South Africa, the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) of 1993 governs workplace health and safety. Key regulations include:

General Safety Regulations: Require employers to ensure contractors and suppliers adhere to safety standards, preventing risks to employees and the public.
Hazardous Chemical Substances Regulations: Mandate documentation and safety protocols for handling hazardous substances.
Section 37(2) Agreements: These agreements delineate health and safety responsibilities between employers and contractors, ensuring compliance with regulations.

Complete the form below to find out how to qualify for your Free Health and Safety Audit today.

Responsibilities of Role Players

Employers: Provide resources and support for safety management programs.
Health and Safety Officers: Oversee the development and implementation of safety measures to meet legal and industry standards.
Contractors and Suppliers: Comply with safety standards and protocols set by employers.
Supervisors: Ensure adherence to safety measures and provide feedback.
Employees: Participate in safety initiatives and apply safety protocols in their tasks.

Tasks and Responsibilities in Safety Management

Pre-Qualification and Selection: Develop a robust process to select contractors and suppliers committed to health and safety.
Contractual Obligations: Draft clear contracts outlining safety expectations, responsibilities, and communication protocols.
Induction and Training: Provide comprehensive training to ensure understanding of safety policies and procedures.
Supervision and Monitoring: Conduct site inspections and audits to monitor safety performance and compliance.
Incident Investigation and Corrective Action: Investigate incidents to identify causes and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Any questions? Speak to one of our Experts

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Legal Penalties: Non-compliance can lead to fines, legal actions, and potential business closure.
Increased Accidents and Injuries: Poor management can result in more workplace accidents and injuries.
Financial Losses: Accidents can lead to medical expenses, compensation claims, and production downtime.
Reputational Damage: A poor safety record can harm a company’s reputation, affecting business and attracting talent.
Operational Disruptions: Ineffective management can cause delays and disruptions in production schedules.

MAKROSAFE's End-to-End Safety Solutions

MAKROSAFE offers comprehensive solutions to manage contractor and supplier safety:

Pre-Qualification and Selection: Helps develop processes to select safety-committed contractors and suppliers.
Contractual Obligations: Assists in drafting contracts outlining safety expectations and responsibilities.
Induction and Training: Provides training programs to ensure understanding of safety policies and procedures.
Supervision and Monitoring: Conducts site inspections and audits to monitor safety performance and compliance.
Incident Investigation and Corrective Action: Investigates incidents to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.

Adhering to OHS Act for Contractors

The Section 37(2) Agreement under OHSA outlines employer and contractor responsibilities for workplace safety. MAKROSAFE helps implement these agreements effectively, ensuring clear communication and accountability.

Permit to Work

A Permit to Work, issued under the OHS Act (nr 85 of 1993), is required for tasks such as working in confined spaces, at heights, or with hazardous materials. MAKROSAFE assists in managing these permits to ensure compliance.

Managing contractor and supplier safety is crucial for maintaining a safe, productive work environment in South Africa’s trade and commerce sectors. Partnering with MAKROSAFE provides expert guidance, risk assessments, and training courses, fostering a culture of safety across your supply chain. Contact MAKROSAFE to enhance your workplace safety and ensure long-term business success.

If you have any questions, please feel free to speak to one of our Experts

MAKROSAFE, as an authorised dealership of SafetyWallet, provides comprehensive assistance to businesses, helping them to conduct thorough risk assessments, develop tailored safety training programs, and maintain compliance with health and safety regulations. By prioritising safety and partnering with MAKROSAFE, businesses can create a safer working environment, protect their employees, and ensure long-term success. Investing in health and safety is not just a legal obligation but a strategic decision that benefits both workers and the business as a whole. Contact MAKROSAFE today and take a proactive step towards a safer workplace for your organisation.

Partnering with MAKROSAFE empowers you to conduct effective health and safety compliance audits and build a robust safety culture within your business. Schedule your complimentary consultation today to discuss your specific needs and discover how we can help you achieve operational excellence while prioritising the well-being of your workforce. Partnering with OHS Online and the Triple P HSMS, MAKROSAFE offers a comprehensive suite of services to assist employers in creating a safe and compliant work environment for any industry.

As a subscriber of SafetyWallet, you're entitled to a 25% discount on our health and safety courses. The value of safety cannot be overstated, and we're committed to supporting institutions in fostering a secure environment. Take advantage of your SafetyWallet subscription and enhance safety standards within your institution. Our courses are also available for purchase on My Safety Shop, ensuring easy access to the training you need.

Click on the image below to find a SafetyWallet Solution that suits your business (Branch/Site specific) and get the 22 benefits that includes FREE Health and Safety E-Learning for all staff along with the subscription:

To find out what other Additional Services we offer, please click on the picture below:

SAFETYWALLET In Co-operation with MAKROSAFE and MY SAFETY SHOP