As many as 10-13% of construction workers in South Africa are living with HIV/AIDS, potentially causing increased absenteeism, high staff turnover and a loss of valuable skills and tacit knowledge in the sector. Employers in the sector can help reduce risk and promote a healthy workplace by offering awareness programmes and support.
This is according to Mohau Mphomela, Executive Director at the Master Builders Association North (MBA North), who spoke at their World Aids Day event on 2 December.
Prof. Muzimkhulu Zungu, Head of the HIV TB in the Workplace Unit at the National Institute for Occupational Health, says: “In South Africa, approximately 5.9 million (17%) of adults aged 15-49 are living with HIV. While there is limited data specifically on construction workers, a study conducted by Bowen et al. (2012-2014) revealed that at least 10% of construction workers were HIV-positive. This figure was particularly notable among workers aged 30-49, with 13.5% living with HIV.”
Prof. Zungu notes: “HIV, especially if left untreated has a significant impact on workers and their families, business, governments, society and the economy, affecting productivity, healthcare costs and labour markets. It reduces workforce productivity as it primarily affects people in their most productive years, leading to higher absenteeism and turnover. HIV also increases healthcare costs, especially in regions with high prevalence like South Africa. The loss of skilled workers, particularly in the construction industry, hampers long-term economic growth and morale of workers. Stigma and discrimination against those living with or affected by HIV/AIDS can undermine fundamental workplace rights. Families and business face financial strain due to funeral costs, caregiving responsibilities and higher group risk benefits, which deepens poverty. Governments must allocate more resources to health interventions, diverting funds from other services. Thus, effective prevention and treatment programmes are essential for mitigating the negative effects of HIV in the construction industry.”
Mphomela says: “In the construction industry, HIV is not considered an occupational disease, meaning that the work environment does not routinely expose employees to HIV through their job-related tasks. However, HIV is a disease of public health importance due to its widespread impact on individuals, families, and communities, as well as its potential to increase healthcare costs and burden the economy. Employers and workers should prioritise HIV prevention and support measures to ensure a healthy, productive workforce and reduce the stigma associated with the disease.”
HIV/AIDS best practice
Gerhard Roets, Construction Health and Safety Manager at MBA North says that at a minimum, employers and workers in the construction sector should implement the ‘Code of Good Practice on HIV/AIDS and Employment’ as best practice. This provides guidelines for employers to create supportive and non-discriminatory workplaces for employees affected by HIV/AIDS. It encourages the protection of workers’ rights, including confidentiality, non-discrimination and access to treatment.
He says: “The Code emphasizes the importance of HIV prevention, education and awareness programmes, as well as offering reasonable accommodations for employees living with HIV. It also advises on how to manage absenteeism and ensure fair practices in relation to recruitment, promotions, and benefits. The goal is to foster an inclusive and healthy work environment, while ensuring that workers living with HIV/AIDS are treated with dignity and respect.”
In the construction industry, safety has traditionally been the primary focus, often overshadowing health-related issues. However, Roets says MBA North recognises the crucial role that Occupational Health plays in ensuring overall well-being.
“In 2023, MBA North launched a dedicated campaign to raise awareness around HIV/AIDS, engaging with key stakeholders to promote education and understanding. Recognising the importance of ongoing awareness, MBA North is committed to making this initiative an annual event, helping to create a healthier, more informed workforce in the industry,” he says.
World AIDS Day commemoration
MBA North partnered with key stakeholders, including the National Institute for Occupational Health and e’Pap, to raise awareness around the impact of HIV/AIDS in the construction industry at an event held in Midrand on 2 December. This year, the theme was ‘Collective Action: Sustain and Accelerate HIV Progress’, aiming to drive meaningful change to build a more informed and healthier workforce.
The programme included impactful presentations from notable speakers such as Prof Muzimkhulu Zungu from the National Institute of Occupational Health, Ms Bulelwa Huna from the Department of Employment and Labour, and Ms Carmen Naidu from Reality Wellness Group. A candle lighting ceremony took place to honour the lives lost to HIV/AIDS.
In addition, Daniel Kransdorff from e’Pap distributed over 150 complimentary nutrition packs to construction workers at a Gauteng building site, alongside a toolbox talk to educate and raise awareness around HIV and nutrition.
