Lost your password? Please enter your username or email address. You will receive a link to create a new password via email.Lost your password? Please enter your username or email address. You will receive a link to create a new password via email.The concept of “decent work” is one that the government, labour unions, employers and market analysts encourage if South Africa is to further its growth ambitions.
The country’s construction sector, of which the building industry forms a significant part, is an important player in job creation with an impact on a range of other sectors such as manufacturing, mining, transport, real estate and business services. It accounts for 8% of total registered employment, with a 2.5% share of nominal GDP.
But the reality is that discussions with stakeholders in the informal are not always possible, leading to exploitation.The decline of skilled personnel, particularly artisans, is putting the industry at risk and must be addressed systematically to ensure that the sector attracts and retains recognised skilled employees.
The second pillar, “standards and basic rights at work”, focuses on collective bargaining which provides a platform for all labour players to engage in negotiations for minimum wages to be improved at industry level, ensuring that labour costs are standardised. When every workplace negotiates directly with employees on wages and employment benefits, strikes and work stoppages often occur.
Employers also have a responsibility to create conditions conducive to advancing the decent work agenda. This can be done by providing solid employment opportunities, upholding rights at work in compliance with labour laws, respecting the collective bargaining process and communicating effectively with employees.
Other ways the public can contribute include supporting financial institutions and investment funds that prioritise ethical practices. Stakeholders should also be willing to pay fair prices for building services and projects, understanding that lower costs often come at the expense of decent living wages.