The Department of Employment and Labour has closed down operations at a Free State farm after the accident involving 60 farm workers in Bultfontein.

The accident occurred last week when a truck transporting these workers overturned. According to spokesperson for the department in the province, Cebisa Siyobi, the truck was certified to carry only three passengers. The truck was en route to Drie Hoek farm with 60 workers aboard when the accident happened. This serious violation of transportation regulations prompted immediate and decisive action. The department also strongly condemned the unsafe transportation practices prevalent in the farming sector.

‘Notice mandates the immediate cessation of all operations’

The Provincial Chief Inspector Manelisi Luxande expressed his deep regret and said that it could have been prevented. Luxande criticised the employer for recklessness and negligence, highlighting that the employer’s failure to ensure the safety of employees which constitutes a breach of the "Occupational Health and Safety Act."

Cebisa said the labour inspectors issued a prohibition notice to the employer. This notice mandates the immediate cessation of all operations until the identified safety issues are rectified.

Siyobi noted that further inspections are underway to ensure the employer adheres to all labour legislation and safety standards.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg