South African Society of Occupational Medicine

About us

The South African Society of Occupational Medicine (SASOM) is dedicated to the advancement of occupational medicine and health practices across industries. As a leading voice in occupational medicine, SASOM brings together a network of professionals committed to ensuring a safer, healthier, and more productive workforce. Our work is rooted in the belief that healthy workers are the foundation of thriving organizations and communities.

With a strong history of advocacy, education, and collaboration, SASOM provides its members with access to invaluable resources, opportunities for professional development, and a platform for sharing knowledge and expertise in the field of occupational medicine and health.

Objectives

Focusing on Occupational Medicine

As specialists in occupational medicine, our primary aim is to protect and promote the health of workers by preventing occupational diseases and managing work-related injuries and illnesses. While occupational medicine is an integral part of the broader field of occupational health and safety, our focus is distinct, addressing medical issues within the workplace environment.

Promoting Safe and Healthy Work Environments

We advocate for the creation of healthy workplaces by eliminating occupational hazards and ensuring conditions that foster employee well-being. Our goal is to work closely with other areas of occupational health and safety to create safer, healthier environments.

Contributing to Sustainable Development

Healthy workers are vital to sustainable development. By enabling employees to lead productive lives, SASOM helps drive positive social and economic change, benefiting both industry and communities.

Advancing Occupational Medicine and Professional Growth

We are dedicated to advancing occupational medicine as a recognized medical discipline. Through continuous professional development, accredited seminars, workshops, and our journal (Occupational Health Southern Africa), we empower healthcare professionals with the expertise to enhance workplace health and safety.

Strengthening Communication and Collaboration

We emphasize the importance of communication and collaboration within the occupational medicine community and between our members and stakeholders. Building strong networks allows us to address the unique challenges of occupational health more effectively.

Shaping National and Global Health Policies

SASOM plays a key role in shaping national and international occupational health policies, ensuring that occupational medicine remains central to discussions on workplace health and safety. Our contribution helps align South African practices with global standards.

 

Our people

Elected members

Prof DJ Kocks

Chairperson

Dr AB Kotze

Vice-chair

Dr F Fox

Secretary

Dr G Tafaune

Treasurer

Other ExCo members

Dr JNR Lapere

Dr HM Williams

Dr GP Kew

Dr M Jina

Dr BN Andrews

Dr BM Cheou

Co-opted members

Ms CMCA Nogueira

ICOH National Secretary

Prof SMA Kgalamono

NIOH

Prof MH Ross

SASTM

Dr m Murwamphida

MMPA

Chairperson(s) of SASOM Chapters

Dr I Ntatamala

Western Cape

Dr B Dhaniram

KwaZulu Natal

Dr L Ellis

Northern Cape

Dr R Goordeen

KwaZulu Natal

Dr L Naidoo

Eastern Cape

Dr JB de Villiers

North West

Confidentiality of Member Information: SASOM is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of all member information in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act, 2013 (POPIA). All personal data, including contact details of members, will remain confidential and will not be disclosed without the member’s explicit consent. Any requests for member contact information must be submitted to the National Office, and details will only be shared if the member has provided prior written consent, in compliance with POPIA. We ensure that all personal information is processed lawfully, fairly, and in a transparent manner as per the requirements of the Act.