A labor dispute is unfolding at a Steers restaurant in Menlopark, Pretoria, after a unionist intervened when he observed staff performing gardening duties while wearing their work uniforms. Despite a statement from the franchise acknowledging the incident and stating it is “unacceptable,” the unionist intends to pursue the matter further.
Concerns Over Job Descriptions and Labor Practices
Lebusa Dave Manaregane, affiliated with the South African Workers Union (Sawu), first noticed the situation while driving past the restaurant. He stated he approached the staff, believing the assigned tasks were inappropriate given their roles and the stipulations of the Labour Relations Act. According to Manaregane, the workers themselves expressed that they were unsure why they were asked to do the gardening, responding with, “only God knows.”
Manaregane alleges this practice has been ongoing for years, describing it as a “culture” within the store. He emphasized that while assisting with cleaning might be reasonable, gardening tasks pose potential occupational health risks and are outside the scope of their employment. He also stated the workers are not receiving additional compensation for this work.
Focus on Management
The unionist identified the restaurant manager as the individual directing staff to perform the gardening. Manaregane asserted that the manager’s justification did not include any cost-related concerns. He indicated that Sawu is currently conducting further investigation into the situation and has uncovered additional allegations.
Steers released a statement on Thursday acknowledging the incident, attributing the manager’s instruction to a delay in maintenance by the property landlord following the December holiday period. The franchise stated that while maintaining a clean exterior is important, it should not be the responsibility of team members and is not standard practice.
What Could Happen Next
Manaregane indicated he intends to pursue the matter through either the labour court or bargaining council. He and his team were conducting investigations at the restaurant on Thursday and plan to return on Friday. It is possible that Sawu will seek to formally represent the Steers employees involved. A possible next step for Steers could be further internal review of management practices at the franchise location. The franchise may also face scrutiny regarding its oversight of labor practices at independently owned locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the unionist to intervene?
Lebusa Dave Manaregane, a unionist with Sawu, intervened after observing Steers staff performing gardening duties while in their uniforms, believing it violated the Labour Relations Act.
What is Steers’ response to the situation?
Steers released a statement stating the practice was not standard procedure and was unacceptable, attributing it to a manager’s decision due to a delay in landlord maintenance.
What action is the unionist planning to take?
Manaregane stated he intends to take the matter further, potentially through the labour court or bargaining council, and is continuing to investigate the situation.
How do you balance the need for businesses to maintain their properties with ensuring fair labor practices for their employees?
