Amendments to Level 3 Lockdown Regulations – A synopsis

On Sunday, 12 July 2020, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced amendments to the current Alert level 3 lockdown regulations.

Some of these amendments are significant, especially as these relate to workplaces. The most significant amendments for employers relate to the provision and wearing of cloth masks at the workplace. In terms of the new regulations, an employer must provide every employee with a cloth face mask, homemade item or other appropriate item that covers the nose and mouth.

Notwithstanding the fact that the requirement to provide a mask is not new, there is now a legal obligation on employers to enforce the wearing of masks in the workplace. An employer who fails to take reasonable steps to enforce the wearing of masks in the workplace now commits a criminal offence and may be liable for a fine or six months’ imprisonment or both. Employers are therefore strongly urged to take heed of this regulation.

The amendments further re-impose a curfew, now between 21h00 and 04h00 during which time every person is to be at home, except those traveling to and from their places of work, medical emergency, or for security reasons. Persons traveling for work must be in possession of a requisite permit.

The amendments also serve to clarify the confusion that existed surrounding the accommodation sector, confirming that accommodation establishments may only operate for purposes of business, quarantine, or for remaining tourists. Accommodation for leisure purposes remains prohibited.

The regulations, as these pertain to the sale and distribution of alcohol have been reinstated.

The remainder of the amendments deal with access to public places and the obligation to wear masks as well as limitations on public transport.

Be safe, be healthy, and above all else, remain optimistic. We will get through this, together!

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Note: This article was originally published on 14 July 2020.

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