The labour relations landscape in South Africa has drastically transformed since the advent of democracy in 1994. South Africa’s labour legislation, post 1994, is among the most progressive in the world, providing for institutions to settle disputes and ensure fairness in the workplace.

Labour Relations in South Africa remains a minefield for all employers, trade unions and employees. In fact, anyone involved in business today must be aware of the stringent laws and complexities of both collective and individual employer – employee relationships in the workplace.

Labour relations issues stem from various aspects of employment and labour law and involve all aspects of an employee's relationship with an employer. Human resources practitioners, managers and supervisors maintain this relationship by implementing employee policies that establish rules regarding, inter alia, performance, conduct, conflict of interest and discipline. Managing employee relations issues help employers correct inappropriate behavior, as well as promote a structured and productive workplace.

The prevailing labour relations landscape makes it almost impossible for companies to develop and grow without having expert labour relations support on hand to assist them with the correct application and interpretation of employment and labour law. Small to medium sized enterprises cannot afford the cost of such in – house expertise. Seshni Consulting (Pty) Ltd. can provide your company with outsourced labour relations support, through our network of qualified and experienced law consultants, at a fraction of the cost of having your own in – house labour consultants.

The complex but necessary labour legislation has made it essential as opposed to optional for companies of all sizes to have expert and effective labour relations support. The need for your company to have such support is amplified by the following statistics:

• The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) deals with approximately 100 000 cases annually.
• The majority of cases relate to allegations of unfair labour practices brought by employees against employers.
• Approximately 80% of the cases referred to the CCMA are for unfair dismissal disputes).
• 40% of employers in South Africa have lost their case at a CCMA arbitration.

In providing an outsourced solution, the objective, of Seshni Consulting (Pty) Ltd., is to assist employers to apply the Labour Law correctly in the workplace through sound labour relation solutions that work for both employers and employees. By implementing all the necessary codes and procedures, we establish a foundation on which to build.

We understand that where employers apply the labour law correctly in the workplace and where an effective communication channel is established between employers, employees, shop stewards and trade unions, problems are solved speedily and efficiently. Workable solutions are found and thus a happier and more productive working environment is created.

Discipline is also managed and maintained more effectively in the workplace when employees are made aware of the company’s disciplinary code and procedure and the consequences should any of these rules be transgressed.By facilitating disciplinary hearings and grievance procedures on our clients’ premises, we can ensure that the correct procedures are followed and that reasonable outcomes are achieved, and fair progressive discipline practises are adhered to.

Seshni Consulting (Pty) Ltd. has the capacity and expertise to assist companies in a supportive, constructive and pro – active manner with all labour law processes, labour relations management and statutory obligations to ensure compliance, minimise risk and to create a sound labour relations climate that aims to promote economic development, social justice, labour peace and democracy in the workplace.