Fans have been bought for some staff at KwaDukuza municipality’s Ballito offices, but licensing and finance staff are still forced to close up shop in hot weather.

For over a month, the offices have been closing early at 1pm on days when the temperature exceeds 27°C.

This is because the air-conditioning system at Nokukhanya Luthuli House is broken and, according to municipal spokesperson, Sifiso Zulu, causes dangerous working conditions for staff.

The early closures have drawn the ire of many residents who have been turned away.

“The issue has been brought to my attention multiple times,” said Ward 6 councillor, Ayabonga Zwane.

“We requested an official notice to inform residents, as people go there after 12 and are not told in advance that the offices are actually closing.”

Although the public-facing licensing office has been the primary source of frustration for residents, staff from the KDM economic development unit have also been affected.

The economic development staff have since received fans, however, while those in the licensing and finance offices continue to sweat.

Following queries from the Courier, KDM released a statement last week explaining that the early closures were necessary to comply with employee safety legislation and to detail the municipality’s next steps.

“The issue of faulty air conditioners has been ongoing for quite some time,” said Zulu.

“It is just that these were isolated cases where it will be repaired one after the other. The timeline for replacing the system will be determined by the procurement process that needs to be undertaken.”

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