The proposed removal of Ekurhuleni Health District Pharmacy from Bertha Gxowa Hospital in Germiston to Maintenance Hub in Springs has been met with hostility by the Public Servants Association (PSA).
PSA represents more than 14,000 employees at the Gauteng department of health, with majority of its employees working at Ekurhuleni District Health Services. It stated that it previously raised concerns regarding the health and safety of employees at the Maintenance Hub in Springs.
“In November 2023, the PSA requested consultation at a multilateral forum meeting. But the Department of Health mentioned that it was no longer going to move the district pharmacy at Bertha Gxowa Hospital.
Occupational health and safety hazard
“The PSA was thus surprised that District Management decided to move the District Pharmacy in March 2024. [This was done] without consultation at the district multilateral meeting. The PSA conducted a site visit. And it was appalled that, employees including the union’s members, have been subjected to occupation health and safety hazards,” said Olivia Mashigo. She is PSA acting provincial manager in Gauteng,
Mashigo also added that it was worrying that the employees were expected to execute their duties in a corrugated metal shack.
“The PSA requested intervention by the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL). The DEL visited the workplace in Springs and decided to immediately close the Ekurhuleni District Pharmacy in Springs on 31 May 2024.
The union also stated that it is currently working on requesting intervention from another stakeholder. It has sought the provincial management of the department of health. This to ensure the health and safety of employees at the workplace.
Intervention from regulatory body
The labour union stated that it was also busy seeking intervention by from the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC). It wants it to compel Ekurhuleni Health District Services to comply with the pharmacy regulatory body. The SAPC (SA Pharmacy Council) has regulations for operating a pharmacy.
PSA is vocal on many issues affecting its members. It has also been at the fore front fighting for the rights of its members.
