Construction Industry News and Views - August 2021
Construction Industry News and Views Edition 195 02 August 2021
Dear Members and Readers
Following a turbulent week of unrest during the month of July 2021, several businesses across various sectors in the KZN province were affected. Whilst the full extent of the unrest is still being ascertained for the KZN construction industry, it has come to our attention that some construction sites were also impacted. The Association circulated information to members on force majeure, which highlighted the importance of raising the necessary notices for extension of time for delays as a result of the unrest in terms of the relevant contracts.
Sasria is a state-owned insurance company that provides insurance cover for incidents of unrest. President Cyril Ramaphosa in his speech on 25 July 2021 indicated that “Sasria has committed to expedite the payment of all valid claims.” It was further noted that support would be extended to uninsured businesses affected by the incident. Business and Government need to work together to build resilience and restore business confidence to attract investors to the industry. The Association is committed to engaging with relevant stakeholders to assist in the rebuild programme.
The Association continues to update members on COVID-19 protocols and information, as the move to Adjusted Alert Level 3 restrictions led to a greater opening of the economy. Members are reminded to take the relevant precautions and ensure workplace safety during this time. At this stage, member meetings will be hosted remotely and Association events will be considered in due course based on the Regulations in place.
We would like to remind members of the additional services offered through the Association’s Print Studio, Recruitment Agency, Training Academy, Occupational Health Clinics, Conference facility, Café Indaba and OHS Consulting units. Our services include administration of retirement funds as well as property leasing. The recent addition of a courier service at the Print Studio has added value to our one stop business hub. Please feel free to contact the Association for your business needs.
This month’s edition celebrates our member companies, their achievements and contributions to KwaZulu-Natal. We provide pertinent information and questions that businesses should ask when reviewing their insurance policies and take an in-depth look into the appointment and registration of the Information Officer in terms of the POPI Act. The article titled ‘Amended B-BBEE Construction Sector Codes simplified’ will assist readers to understand and comply with the Amended B-BBEE Construction Codes. The newsletter also contains an exciting announcement regarding the Association’s certification as a First Aid Organisation.
Enjoy the read!
Vikashnee Harbhajan | Executive Director
Master Builders KwaZulu-Natal supports rebuilding efforts by member companies
Master Builders KwaZulu-Natal applauds member company, Recharger Prepaid Meters, on its recent efforts to support and assist local businesses with rebuilding efforts currently underway subsequent to the destructive unrest across parts of South Africa. The existing economic pressure caused by the COVID-19 pandemic had already resulted in a significant strain on the construction industry, which has been further exacerbated in recent weeks.
Amended B-BBEE Construction Sector Codes simplified
The Amended Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Sector Codes for the construction industry were gazetted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on 1 December 2017. The construction industry is one of the primary drivers of economy in South Africa therefore it is imperative that the industry understands it role/position and complies with the Amended B-BBEE Construction Codes to accelerate transformation.
Insurance is a means to protect business from risks identified that may occur without warning; it provides peace of mind that in the event of a disaster, regardless of the magnitude, the business will not have to dig deep in its pockets to cover the costs to recover. Choosing adequate insurance cover is crucial to ensure that benefits are claimed when it matters most. There are a number of factors to consider when assessing insurance, such as the significant business risks, policy exclusions and coverage limits.
POPI Act - Appointment and Registration of Information Officer
The POPI Act designates the head of the business as the Information Officer. The Information Officer can delegate his or her responsibilities to any other duly authorised person and can appoint as many Deputy Information Officers as necessary. However, it is important to note that the Information Officer remains ultimately responsible for ensuring that the processing of personal information is done in a lawful manner and “retains the accountability and responsibility for any power or the functions authorised to that person”.
Contract Participation Goals (CPG) – A brief overview
In terms of the CIDB Act (Act 38 of 2000), a Board must establish a Best Practice Project Assessment Scheme which shall be based on the best practices identified by the Board. One of the best practices established is the CIDB Best Practice Project Assessment Scheme: Standard for Contract Participation Goals for Targeting Enterprises and Labour through Construction Works as gazetted on 10 November 2017 under Gazette No. 41237 (“CIDB Standard”).
Patcon Building and Civil Engineering Contractors (Pty) Ltd certified ISO45001:2018 – Health and Safety Management System
Patcon Building and Civil Engineering Contractors (Pty) Ltd commenced its operations in 1995 with sole member Mr. Suresh Raghubar. Over a period of 26 years, the company has expanded its skills base and transformed from a small business to a thriving organisation with prestigious accolades. The accumulation of awards and certifications amassed during the years of operation are proudly on display at the Patcon premises. The company previously specialised in the petrochemical environment and has evolved into a multi-skilled building and civil Construction organisation with a focus on added value.
Master Builders KZN approved as First Aid Organisation by Department of Employment and Labour
Master Builders KwaZulu-Natal is proud to announce that it has been approved by the Department of Employment and Labour as a First Aid Organisation to issue certificates of competency in first aid to persons who have successfully completed the course.
The root cause of most workplace blunders is not having an effective communication system. Effective communication includes exchanging information and ideas within the workplace which includes verbal, written and non-verbal communication from one person or group to another. Employees should be trained on effective communication methods which will improve the way in which the organisation functions. Effective communication forms the basis to a successful organisation.
The training programmes are intended to provide access to currently employed candidates, unemployed candidates and school leavers, as well as to facilitate workplace training.
Members who have current contracts that make provision for Contract Price Adjustment are able to download the latest published indices from Statistics South Africa by clicking on the following link.
