Occupational Health and Safety Update

Department of Employment and Labour Launches Amended National Code of Practice for Training Providers of Lifting Machine Operators

On Friday, 04 April 2025, the Department of Employment and Labour officially launched the amended National Code of Practice (NCOP) for Training Providers of Lifting Machine Operators (LMO) during a workshop held in Pretoria.

The amended Code aims to provide clarity and direction to all stakeholders involved—directly or indirectly—in the accreditation and provision of training for lifting machinery and equipment operators in South Africa.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Jacob Malatse, Director of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering at the Department, emphasised the importance of the revised Code:

“The code will put players in the field to play and referees to manage the game, rather than having players and referees playing and also refereeing,” he said.

Key updates to the Code include:

• The Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) will now issue certificates of competence—not training providers.
• These certificates will be issued in a transparent and orderly manner and will no longer have expiry dates.
• The Code establishes a strong foundation for the training of all lifting machine/equipment operators, ensuring standardised training and consistent safety protocols.

These changes are expected to significantly reduce the risk of injuries, fatalities, and damage to equipment and infrastructure in the workplace.

This marks a major step forward in professionalising the sector and strengthening safety and accountability in the operation of lifting machinery.

Click here to download National Code of Practice (NCOP) for Training Providers of Lifting Machine Operators.

Click here to download the Media Release from Department of Employment and Labour.

Please stay tuned for further updates.

Tinus Boshoff

This article does not constitute legal advice. For an informed opinion and/or assistance with a labour-related matter, you are encouraged to arrange a formal consultation with the author.

We will continue to keep you informed and updated.