Public Works supports Construction’s safe resumption

Yesterday, many industries including the construction industry, returned to work to commence with operations in a safe manner in line with Alert Level 3 of the Lockdown Regulations.

We acknowledge that since the start of the national lockdown from 27 March 2020 many industries, and especially the construction industry, have experienced severe economic hardship. We can, however, together overcome and rebuild the construction industry, retain and create more jobs to get the economy growing.

Cornerstone of the economy

The construction industry is crucial to South Africa’s economic growth as it contributes significantly to development and to South Africa’s GDP. The construction industry also contributes substantially to the labour market.

As a country, we have all done our part to carefully navigate our way to this point to contain the spread of the COVID 19 virus. As announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa, many industries are once again able to operate from 1 June 2020 under strict COVID 19 protocols, ensuring the continued containment of the virus. This includes the entire construction industry.  We are mindful that it will be difficult for the industry to adapt to a new way of working, but we are all in this together and it is up to government and the private sector to work together to rebuild the construction industry. 

Keeping workers safe

As companies have staff returning to work, I would like to wish all workers well and especially ask company owners and management to ensure that the resumption of work is done in a careful and responsible manner by ensuring that workers are properly protected and that companies comply with the Alert Level 3 Regulations. 

My appeal is that all companies be extremely vigilant and meticulous to ensure that we do not compromise on the health and safety measures to safeguard employees. 

Once again, we wish all companies and workers returning to work well and ask that you continue to keep safe. Together we will overcome this trying time and rebuild our country.

Issued by The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure