The National Day of Action is the result of a lack of promises, protection and respect.

Public sector workers say their employer - government - has neglected and betrayed them by not honouring the 2018 wage deal agreement.

According to the agreement, the public servants were meant to get their salary increases in April this year, but nothing so far.

Safety in the workplace is a major concern for public sector employees.

Teacher Masego Fisher said the government has failed public servants.

"That is a clear demonstration that our employer doesn't care about us.

It's a sign of no respect and appreciation towards hard-working teachers even during this time of pain and anxiety caused by this pandemic," Fisher said.

Sithembile Khumalo works at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital.

"We have a problem with OHCS and safety," Khumalo said.

"Besides health protection, we become worried as you can see in the news we see too many rape cases, especially here in Gauteng.

"Secondly, the reason I am joining the strike is because of resolution one of 2018, which the government is fighting against now."

Cynthia Msomi, another employee of Charlotte Maxeke Hospital, said: "We are essential workers, I think we can demand our rights and that the government has to pay us our money."

eNCA