News

8 October 2021

Please see below statement on the current metal industry strike:

SAEFA Statement on Metal Industry Strike

We are also aware of rumours that a deal has been reached between SEIFSA and NUMSA, but are unable to confirm this at this stage. Since we have not reached an agreement with NUMSA, in light of the blatant disregard for picketing rules and the rule of law by striking workers, we have accepted the offer from the CCMA to intervene and we hope that other employer parties and trade unions do as well

29 September 2021

Please see below an update following further engagements between parties to the MEIBC today. 

Due to NUMSA issuing strike notice today, SAEFA will, in conjunction with an independent institution, Tokiso, be conducting an electronic ballot of our members during the course of this week to assess the level of support for members to exercise their right to institute a lock out in response to the strike called by NUMSA. 

This electronic ballot will take place in secret and the following must please be noted by all participants:

• Only paid-up members in good standing will be entitled to participate in the ballot; and
• Only one vote per member in good standing will be allowed.

PLEASE TAKE CAREFUL NOTE:

Read more ...

5 October 2021

Please take note of the socio-economic protest action planned for Thursday this week. 

Despite being dated 2017 it appears that it is still applicable.

The strike is protected, but the principle of “no work, no pay” will apply. 

COSATU Notice to Nedlac of Intention to Proceed with Protest Action

15 September 2021

Business continues to be exceptionally difficult for industry employers – the industry had not fully recovered from 2008 crash before the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown.  Economic indicators paint a bleak picture of the immediate future in manufacturing.

One of the biggest causes of financial strain on a business is having to pay employees where there is no reciprocal value added to the business.  Although employees are entitled to various forms of leave, make sure you’re not leaving money on the table!

The South African Engineers’ and Founders’ Association, in association with Gordon Angus and Associates is running a 2-3 hour webinar on Wednesday 29 September at 14:00, to guide employers through the legislative requirements of all forms of leave, including how to apply Covid-19 Regulations in the workplace.

For more information or to book please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

4 October 2021

The results of the electronic ballot conducted by Tokiso on behalf of SAEFA has been circulated to members. The majority of our members voted in support of the implementation of a lock out, in the event of industrial action.

Attached below is the lock out notice sent to the MEIBC: 

Lock Out Notice MEIBC

A template notice which may be used at plant level should you wish to is available from the office.

Please note that member companies are not obligated to lock out employees; however, those who do wish to lock-out employees, are legally permitted to do so.

The picketing rules awarded by the CCMA are also attached below for your attention:

MEIBC Picketing Rules

14 September 2021

Please see a report below following today’s MEIBC Manco-appointed subcommittee meeting to discuss the dispute declared by NUMSA in the industry wage negotiation:

Wage Negotiation Advisory No 41

We have also included a notice for employees that may be placed on company notice boards, at management’s discretion:

Notice to SAEFA Member Employees - 14 September 2021

1 October 2021

Today was a watershed moment for the industry.  SAEFA and Solidarity signed an agreement which we feel will be to the mutual advantage of employees and employers, and the metal and engineering industry as a whole.

This is a ground breaking agreement which opens up opportunities for increased employment, particularly for the young and inexperienced, in the industry and the country.

Please see details below in the Advisory, which may (at your discretion) be placed on company notice boards, together with the signed agreement.

Wage Negotiation Advisory No. 43

Agreement of Settlement

7 September 2021

Please see below the latest update regarding wage negotiations:

Wage Negotiation Advisory No. 40