Health and wellness now a priority for department

DEPARTMENT of correctional services officials in Limpopo, Mpumalanga and the North West (LMN) were urged to take their occupational health and safety environment seriously as the wellness of officials has become a priority in the department.

This call was made by the manager of special programme in LMN’s Thohoyandou management area, Masala Magau during a two-day Integrated Employees Health and Wellness road show last week, which started with 10km fun walk to encourage fitness.

The area commissioner of the Thohoyandou Management Centre, Richard Malebane also took part in the walk that started at Tshishushuru in Dzwerani village and ended at the military base where the road show was held.

“In the past, the public viewed working in the department of correctional services as stressful.

“The department has an obligation to ensure it has a positive, motivated and healthy workforce,” said Magau.

He said the department realised that the well-being of correctional officers was of paramount important.

“We have also realised that correctional officers should work in a safer environment in terms of hygiene and other compliance as stipulated in terms of Occupational Health Safety Act.

“There was also HIV/aids testing available during the event,” added Magau.