Legal Liability

NQF Level 4

SAQA ID: 120334

Certificate

3 Credits

Duration: 4 Days

Course Purpose

This course introduces the legal responsibilities of employers, employees, and other role-players in the workplace under the Occupational Health and Safety Act. It helps learners understand how the law applies to health and safety, and what can happen if the law is not followed.

A qualified learner will be able to:

✓ Understand legal principles related to workplace safety.
✓ Identify the duties of employers, employees, and the CEO.
✓ Explain the purpose of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act).
✓ Recognise the consequences of non-compliance with health and safety law.
✓ Understand the role and powers of inspectors and safety representatives.

Why This Course?

Workplace health and safety is a legal requirement. Understanding your responsibilities under the OHS Act (No. 85 of 1993) helps prevent legal action, reduce risk, and improve safety culture.

Key Benefits

✓ Learn what “reasonably practicable” means in the workplace.
✓ Know when employers or workers can be held legally responsible.
✓ Understand penalties and enforcement actions.
✓ Build a strong foundation for compliance with safety regulations.
✓ Avoid costly mistakes, fines, or prosecution.

Course Topics:

1. Legal Principles – Common Law & Statutory Law

2. Vicarious Liability and Negligence

3. Reasonably Practicable and Intention

4. Overview of the Occupational Health and Safety Act

5. Duties of Employers, Employees, and the CEO

6. Role of Health and Safety Representatives

7. Regulations – including hazardous substances and administrative duties

8. Legal Notices: Prohibition, Improvement, and Contravention

9. Offences, Penalties, and Appeals

10. Construction Regulation 30