What a wonderful 2016 OHS Conference and exhibition!

Saiosh hosted its sixth occupational health and safety (OHS) Conference alongside the A-OSH Expo at the Gallagher Convention Centre from May 24 to 26.

Over 250 delegates were treated to a wide range of thought-provoking topics including hazardous waste management, occupational health in the workplace, management of employee fatigue and many others.

On the first day, the keynote speaker was the chief inspector from the Department of Labour, Tibor Szana, who spoke on anticipated new legislation, which will bring existing legislation into line with the Constitution. Among some expected changes are closer compliance checks by inspectors, as well as steeper fines for defaulters.

The Saiosh Conference was again partnered with IOSH from the United Kingdom, which was the lead sponsor. Its president, Karen McDonnell, was the keynote speaker on the second day. UVEX was the gold sponsor and NOSA sponsored the cocktail function.

Our visitor from Saudi Arabia, engineer Waleed Jawadi, explained how the Saudi Electric Company decided to implement a health and safety programme in a country where there is no legislation in place to require such a programme. The lessons learnt could well be adapted by many South African companies that have not yet adopted OHS as part of their business strategy.

While the conference was in session, the Saiosh exhibition stand in Hall 3 was manned by staff from the Saiosh head office. Hundreds of visitors stopped to enquire about membership and were taken through the process to join the more than 6 500 current members. Scores of members visited the stand to introduce themselves and establish contact.

The increasing number of members’ benefits was discussed by all visitors. The Saiosh Council continues to look at ways to create more benefits for our members.

Saiosh is currently the largest Institute in this field and is recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) as the Professional Body for Occupational Safety and Health professionals in South Africa.