SAMTRAC Module 1: Legal Framework

SAMTRAC - Participant Manual

• This manual is for participants of the SAMTRAC (South African Mine Training and Research Centre) program
• Content is owned by NOSA (Pty) LTD and cannot be reproduced or transmitted without express permission
• This is the eighth edition

Module 1: Legal

• This module explores the legal framework around occupational health and safety in South Africa
• The legal system is a hybrid of common law and legislation

Unit 1: Law And Interpretation

• Interpretation is essential to understanding laws
• Focuses on the context in which laws are interpreted, and common rules of interpretation

Unit 2: South Africa’s Legal Framework

• South African law is a hybrid of common law and legislation
• Legislation can be amended or overruled by new legislation
• Comprises of:
  • Constitution of South Africa
  • Legislation: Acts and Regulations
  • International sources of law
  • Common law

Unit 3: Liability

• Liability is key for both employers and employees in OH&S.
• Two types of liability:
  • Criminal (deliberate)
  • Civil (negligence)

Unit 4: Occupational Health and Safety Law

• Focuses on the core legal framework for OH&S in South Africa
• Includes Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993
• Also includes Hazardous Substances Act

Module 2: Health

• This module focuses on all aspects of occupational health

Unit 1: The Occupational Health Service

• OHS is an integral part of a safe and healthy workplace
• Objectives include:
  • Prevent work-related diseases
  • Promote good health
  • Promote safety
  • Ensure compliance with legal mandates
• Fitness to work is a crucial aspect

Unit 2: The Principal Components Of Occupational Health

• This unit focuses on core components of occupational health services:
  • Occupational hygiene - measures and controls work environments
  • Occupational medicine - healthcare for workers
  • Primary healthcare (PHC)

Unit 3: Occupational Health Fundamentals

• Focuses on core concepts in occupational health, particularly toxicity
• Includes important concepts such as:
  • Toxicity definitions
  • Toxic effects
  • Exposure limits
  • Routes of exposure
  • Classes of toxins

This quiz covers the first module of the SAMTRAC program, focusing on the legal framework surrounding occupational health and safety in South Africa. Participants will explore the interpretation of laws, the hybrid legal system of common law and legislation, and the concept of liability. Test your understanding of South Africa’s legal environment in relation to occupational safety.