25 April 2025 | Regulatory Compliance & Legislation
As the global workforce continues to transition into digitally enabled roles, new occupational hazards are emerging—many of which traditional labour policies were never designed to address. Recognising this shift, the Department of Employment and Labour has released a critical 12-page guideline titled:
“What Every Employer and Employee Should Know for the Digital Economy.”
This forward-thinking document equips both employers and employees with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate health and safety risks associated with remote, platform-based, and tech-centric work environments—collectively referred to as the digital economy.
Understanding the Digital Economy
The digital economy refers to the digitalisation of business models, production processes, and employment structures through the use of data, internet connectivity, and digital platforms. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Remote and teleworking arrangements
- Call centres and customer service hubs
- Platform work (e.g., ride-hailing, delivery services, freelance gig platforms)
These working models, while enhancing flexibility and operational efficiency, also introduce unique occupational health and safety (OHS) challenges—ranging from physical strain due to prolonged screen time to psychological risks like isolation, burnout, and job insecurity.
Scope and Structure of the Guideline
The booklet is structured to be both practical and user-friendly. It outlines:
- Aim of the Guideline
To enable workplace stakeholders to identify, assess, and manage risks specific to the digital economy in accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act).
- Key Hazards in the Digital Economy
- Ergonomic issues (e.g., poor workstation setup leading to musculoskeletal disorders)
- Mental health impacts (e.g., stress, burnout, social isolation)
- Digital surveillance concerns (e.g., excessive monitoring)
- Increased risk of cyberbullying or harassment in virtual environments
- Data protection and confidentiality risks for employees handling sensitive information remotely
- Employer Responsibilities
- Conduct a digital-specific risk assessment
- Implement appropriate risk control measures
- Ensure regular review and update of assessments
- Maintain comprehensive records
- Create and enforce digital workplace health policies
- Facilitate access to psychosocial support services
- Employee Responsibilities
- Follow workplace safety protocols
- Use equipment correctly
- Report emerging hazards promptly
- Participate in training sessions
- Risk Management Tools
The guideline includes two annexures to assist in practical implementation:
- Annexure 1: Employee Checklist for assessing digital workspaces
- Annexure 2: Employer Checklist for assessing digital work environments
📘 Download the full document here:
What Every Employer and Employee Should Know for the Digital Economy (PDF)
Relevance to Auditors, Accountants, and Compliance Professionals
The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHS Act) is not optional—it’s legally binding. For auditors, independent reviewers, and accountants, this guidance intersects directly with professional obligations under:
- NOCLAR (Non-Compliance with Laws and Regulations)
- Reportable Irregularities under the Auditing Profession Act
Failure to identify or act on non-compliance could result in:
- Reputational damage
- Legal liability
- Modified audit opinions
- Financial penalties for clients
Audit professionals are advised to review their clients’ digital workplace strategies, ensure OHS measures are documented, and encourage alignment with the new digital economy framework.
Why This Matters for Employers and Employees
The move toward a digital economy is not a trend—it’s a structural transformation. Companies that fail to adapt their occupational health and safety practices may face increased employee turnover, higher medical costs, and legal scrutiny.
For employers, this guideline offers a structured approach to:
- Ensure compliance with national labour laws
- Safeguard employee wellbeing
- Future-proof their work environments
For employees, it provides empowerment and clarity in navigating remote or tech-enabled jobs, especially when advocating for safe and fair working conditions.
Final Thoughts
In a world where digital work is becoming the norm, health and safety cannot be left behind. The Department of Employment and Labour has taken a proactive step in ensuring South Africa is ready for this transition. By following these guidelines, employers and employees can work together to build resilient, safe, and human-centered digital workplaces.
