The distribution of a COVID-19 vaccine is seen as a fundamental component to ending the pandemic. However, mandatory vaccinations in the workplace should be treated with caution by all employers. As it stands, there is currently no legislation in South African law that specifically requires an employee to be vaccinated against COVID-19. As a point of departure, the Occupational Health and Safety Act mandates all employers to provide and …
Is business interruption insurance the key?
A business interruption insurance policy typically caters for a decrease in turnover or profit (depending on the type of cover); an increase in operating expenses and a move to a temporary location (if necessary). The question arises whether or not COVID-19 qualifies as an insured event which could lead to a valid and enforceable insurance claim? The short-term insurance sector …
Relying on vis major clause in a contract in times of COVID-19
Vis major clauses Many businesses will seek to rely on the enforcement of vis major clauses to relieve their performance of certain obligations resulting from the COVID-19 outbreak. The term vis major refers to an event or occurrence, which renders contractual performance impossible. These clauses allow a contracting party to escape the normal consequences of non-performance or late performance of contractual obligations because of …