Regulations and legislation
Why are these important? Regulations and legislation are essential for an industry as they help create a structured, stable, and fair business environment. By establishing a level playing field, they protect the rights and interests of various stakeholders, including businesses, … Continue reading →
There are a number of regulations and legislation that impacts on the leather manufacturing industry in South Africa. The key ones are:
National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS)
The NRCS is responsible for ensuring that leather products comply with minimum safety and quality standards. They regulate various products such as footwear, gloves, and protective clothing made from leather. More information can be found on their website: https://www.nrcs.org.za/
International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC)
ITAC regulates the import and export of leather products in South Africa. They are responsible for issuing import and export permits, as well as monitoring the trade balance of the leather industry. More information can be found on their website: http://www.itac.org.za/
Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA)
The OHSA is a South African law that requires employers to ensure a safe working environment for their employees. This includes the leather manufacturing industry, where employees may be exposed to hazardous chemicals and processes. More information can be found on their website: https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_document/201409/act85of1993.pdf
Waste Act
This legislation aims to reduce the environmental impact of the leather industry by promoting responsible waste management practices. Leather manufacturing companies are required to comply with waste disposal regulations and implement measures to minimize waste generation. More information can be found on the Department of Environmental Affairs’ website: https://www.gov.za/documents/national-environmental-management-waste-act
Labour Relations Act (LRA)
The LRA governs relations between employers and employees in South Africa. It sets out the rights and obligations of both parties and provides a framework for resolving disputes. More information can be found on the Department of Employment and Labour’s website: https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_document/201409/act66-1995labourrelations.pdf
Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE)
This policy aims to promote economic transformation in South Africa by increasing the participation of historically disadvantaged individuals in the economy. Companies in the leather industry are required to comply with B-BBEE regulations in order to qualify for government tenders and contracts. More information can be found on the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition’s website: http://www.thedtic.gov.za/financial-and-non-financial-support/b-bbee/broad-based-black-economic-empowerment/
Hazardous Substances Act
Hazardous Substances Act – This act regulates the importation, production, sale, and use of hazardous substances, which may include chemicals used in the leather manufacturing process. https://www.gov.za/documents/hazardous-substances-act-16-apr-2015-1120
National Environmental Management Act
This act regulates the environmental impact of industrial activities, including those in the leather industry. It requires companies to manage and mitigate their environmental impact and to comply with environmental standards and regulations. https://www.gov.za/documents/national-environmental-management-act
Trade-related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement
This policy aims to promote economic transformation in South Africa by increasing the participation of historically disadvantaged individuals in the economy. Companies in the leather industry are required to comply with B-BBEE regulations in order to qualify for government tenders and contracts. More information can be found on the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition’s website: http://www.thedtic.gov.za/financial-and-non-financial-support/b-bbee/broad-based-black-economic-empowerment/