COSATU in the Western Cape has called on the Department of Labour to enforce the ban on the transportation of farm workers on the back of open trucks.

This after three farm workers died near Philadelphia on Tuesday morning after the truck they were travelling in overturned. Dozens of other workers were injured, as the truck was carrying about 70 farm workers.

Twelve people were seriously injured and 55 sustained slight to moderate injuries (including the driver).

Under South African law, truck drivers transporting farm workers must ensure that the combined weight of their passengers does not exceed 50% of the total vehicle carrying capacity.

The back of the vehicle, on which people are being transported, must also be enclosed by proper sides to at least a height of 350mm above the surface on which they will be sitting.

When transporting people under these circumstances, they are required to be seated on the floor. They may not stand or sit on the edges of the side structures.

However, to enable people to stand on the vehicle, the sides must be covered to a minimum height of at least 900mm.

COSATU Western Cape’s Malvern De Bruyn says they call on law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate this matter to ensure justice is served.

”It is critical that the farm owner take full responsibility for what has happened and offer compensation to the families of the deceased and the injured farm workers.”

De Bruyn says the Human Rights Commission also needs to investigate this matter as they firmly believe that the rights of the workers have been infringed.

The Provincial MEC of Agriculture, Ivan Meyer, has called on farmers and producers who are transporting agri workers to ensure the safety of their vehicles and the transportation of their workers.

”Agri workers are the key to the Western Cape’s agricultural sector. I am also calling for a full investigation into the circumstances that led to the death and injury of farm workers. My sincere condolences go to the families and friends of the workers who have been affected by this tragic accident.”

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