Safetember, the highly anticipated annual conference, is set to take place on September 3rd, 2024, at the Montecasino Ballroom in Johannesburg.
This year’s conference will focus on the pressing issues of motor vehicle accidents and mental health in the workplace, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss solutions to these critical challenges.
Motor Vehicle Accidents: An Occupational Hazard
In South Africa, motor vehicle accidents represent a significant occupational hazard, particularly in high-risk sectors such as construction and mining. According to recent data, motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of workplace fatalities, accounting for 41.52% of all deaths reported in 2024. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures and occupational health and safety (OHS) protocols.
The conference will feature a detailed examination of these issues, including a panel discussion on the causes and prevention of work-related motor vehicle accidents. Experts will share insights and lessons learned from notable incidents, including the George Incident, which highlighted the devastating consequences of inadequate safety measures.
Mental Health in the Workplace
In addition to addressing motor vehicle accidents, the Safetember Conference will also focus on mental health in the workplace. Mental health is increasingly recognized as a critical component of employee well-being and safety, particularly in high-stress industries. The conference will explore strategies for supporting mental health in the workplace, with a particular emphasis on the construction industry, where mental health challenges are often exacerbated by the demanding nature of the work.
Event Agenda:
09:00 AM - 09:15 AM:
Opening & Welcome – Nazeer Hoosen (CEO)
09:15 AM - 10:00 AM:
Keynote Address: Latest OHS Trends & Challenges – Milly Ruiters (Chief Inspector Occupational Health & Safety, Department of Employment & Labour)
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM:
Panel Discussion: Causes & Prevention of Motor Vehicle Accidents in the Workplace – Dr. Herbert Ngakane (FEM Board), Greg Steel (MBA EC), Chris Jiyane (FEM Board)
10:45 AM - 11:00 AM:
Tea Break
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM:
The George Incident: Lessons Learned – Craig Proctor-Parker (Accident Specialist), Eugene Herbert (MasterDrive), Dave Marais (Thabo Training)
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM:
Addressing Mental Health Issues in High-Stress Industries – Dr. Mohlomi Raliile (Nelson Mandela University), Lumka Tamboer (FEM Board)
12:30 PM - 01:15 PM:
FEM Construction Prevention Programme – Sanjay Munnoo (FEM)
01:15 PM - 02:00 PM:
Lunch Break
02:00 PM - 02:45 PM:
Women Empowerment in Construction – Aubrey Tshalata (NAFBI), Roy Mnisi (MBSA)
02:45 PM - 03:00 PM:
FEM Rebrand Launch – Nomawethu Toyo (FEM)
03:00 PM:
Closing Remarks & Networking
Why Attend?
The Safetember Conference is a must-attend event for anyone involved in occupational health and safety, road safety, or mental health. It provides a unique opportunity to engage with leading experts, gain valuable insights, and contribute to the development of safer workplaces across South Africa.
Host
The Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (RF) (Pty) Ltd (FEM), a leading mutual insurer in South Africa, is committed to promoting workplace safety and supporting the construction industry with comprehensive workmen’s compensation services. With a strong focus on occupational health and safety, FEM is dedicated to fostering a safer working environment through initiatives like Safetember. FEM's passion for health and safety is reflected in its ongoing efforts to support employers and employees in achieving the highest standards of workplace safety.
Media Attendance:
Members of the media are encouraged to attend the Safetember Conference to cover these critical issues. The event offers numerous opportunities for exclusive interviews, live streaming of key moments, and on-site pop-up segments.
RSVP by August 23rd, 2024:
Please confirm your attendance by contacting Ms. Magugu Dlamini at 010 824 5611 / 074 056 5917 or via email at
