Master South African labour law with our comprehensive guide to the Basic Conditions of Employment Act. Stay compliant, avoid penalties, and protect your business with expert guidance updated for 2024 requirements.
The Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA), Act 75 of 1997, is South Africa's primary labour law regulating working conditions. It sets minimum standards for employment, including leave entitlements, working hours, and termination procedures.
All employers in South Africa must comply with the BCEA, and failure to do so can result in significant fines, penalties, and legal action. LeaveHub is built to ensure your business stays BCEA-compliant automatically.
Employees are entitled to 21 consecutive days of annual leave per annual cycle, or 1 day for every 17 days worked.
Employees are entitled to paid sick leave equal to the number of days they would normally work in 6 weeks during a 36-month cycle.
Female employees are entitled to at least 4 consecutive months of maternity leave.
Employees working more than 4 days a week are entitled to 3 days family responsibility leave per annual cycle.
Not a statutory requirement under BCEA, but many employers offer study leave as part of skills development.
Failure to comply with BCEA requirements can result in serious consequences: