Employment Equity Frequently Asked Questions
Still unsure about some of your responsibilities as a designated employer? You’re not alone. Below are the most common questions we receive — along with clear, accurate answers based on South African labour legislation and Department of Labour guidelines.
General Questions
What is the Employment Equity Act?
The Employment Equity Act (No. 55 of 1998) is legislation aimed at eliminating unfair discrimination and promoting workplace diversity in South Africa.
Who qualifies as a designated employer?
Any business with 50+ employees or exceeding specific turnover thresholds by sector. Municipalities, government departments, and voluntarily registered employers also qualify.
What happens if I don’t comply?
Non-compliance may result in fines, inspections, or being barred from government contracts. Fines range up to R2.7 million or 10% of turnover.
Reporting Questions
What is the difference between EEA2 and EEA4?
EEA2 is your workforce demographic report. EEA4 deals with income differentials and must justify any unjustifiable pay gaps.
When are the submission deadlines?
- Manual submission: 1 October
- Online submission: 15 January
Do I need to submit every year?
Yes — all designated employers must report annually.
EE Committee Questions
Is an EE Committee mandatory?
Yes. Designated employers must establish a consultative forum (typically an EE Committee) for EE Plan development and monitoring.
How often must the committee meet?
At least quarterly. Minutes and attendance must be recorded and filed.
Can one person be the committee?
No. A representative structure is required across occupational levels, race, and gender.
EE Plan Questions
How long should my EE Plan be?
Plans typically cover 1 to 5 years, depending on your workforce needs and targets.
What if I miss a target?
If you can show valid reasons and progress, the DOL generally accepts reasonable explanations — but repeated failure can lead to further action.
Have a question not listed here?
Reach out to our team and we’ll answer it directly — or add it to this page for others to benefit.