, OHS2601 Assignment 1 Semester 1 2026 - DUE 9 March 2026
1.1 The Meaning of “Reasonably Practicable” under the OHSA
Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993, an employer
is required to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the health and
safety of employees at work. This duty is not absolute. It is determined
on a case-by-case basis by balancing various relevant factors.
The concept of “reasonably practicable” refers to what is reasonably
possible in the circumstances, taking into account the following
considerations:
1. The Severity and Nature of the Hazard or Risk
The more serious the potential harm, such as risk of death or
serious injury, the greater the measures required to prevent it.
2. The Likelihood of the Risk Occurring
If there is a high probability that a hazard may cause injury or
illness, the employer is expected to take stronger preventive
measures.
1.1 The Meaning of “Reasonably Practicable” under the OHSA
Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993, an employer
is required to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the health and
safety of employees at work. This duty is not absolute. It is determined
on a case-by-case basis by balancing various relevant factors.
The concept of “reasonably practicable” refers to what is reasonably
possible in the circumstances, taking into account the following
considerations:
1. The Severity and Nature of the Hazard or Risk
The more serious the potential harm, such as risk of death or
serious injury, the greater the measures required to prevent it.
2. The Likelihood of the Risk Occurring
If there is a high probability that a hazard may cause injury or
illness, the employer is expected to take stronger preventive
measures.
