Cape Town – The Department of Employment and Labour has issued a warning to employers across South Africa — urging them to stop the illegal and dangerous practice of locking in workers during shifts.
During a recent inspection blitz at the Isithebe Industrial Estate in Mandeni, KwaZulu-Natal, the Department discovered several factories operating under unsafe and unlawful conditions.
One of the most concerning findings was at Rongshou Clothing, where inspectors found workers locked inside the premises.
Acting Chief Director of Statutory and Advocacy Services, Advocate Michael Msiza, said the Department views this behaviour as completely unacceptable.
Labour inspectors recently found a 14-year-old working in a Mandeni factory. Several undocumented migrants were also found. There are now concerns of human trafficking syndicates involved in providing labour. #TheSouthAfricanMorning #DStv403 #DStv194 #QuestionThinkAct pic.twitter.com/3Ug0YPQ1hO
— eNCA (@eNCA) October 30, 2025
“Keeping workers locked behind gates or doors is not only illegal, it also exposes them to serious health and safety risks,” said Msiza. “No employer has the right to confine employees in this way.”
The inspections were carried out in partnership with the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Home Affairs, and the Mandeni Municipality. Authorities also arrested eight undocumented workers from Mozambique and Malawi who were found working at the factory.
Do not “keep workers locked” – Department of Employment and Labour issues a friendly warninghttps://t.co/41dnigSHkf#YaziniFriday #ServicedeliveryZA #GovZAUpdates #ProductivityMonth pic.twitter.com/RONzHGqV7s
— Department of Employment and Labour (@deptoflabour) October 31, 2025
Inspectors reported disturbing labour violations, including workers being paid as little as R5 per hour — far below the legal national minimum wage of R28.79. There were also inadequate ablution facilities and other breaches of occupational health and safety laws.
Msiza added that such conditions suggest “a level of concealment and illegality that cannot be ignored.”
The Department reminded employers of their obligations under key labour laws, including the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, the National Minimum Wage Act, the Employment Services Act, and the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Employers are urged to allow workers freedom of movement, ensure proper safety measures, and provide fair wages and decent working conditions. Those who fail to comply risk serious enforcement action.
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Compiled by Lisabeal Nqamqhele
