The South African Small-Scale Business Corporation (SSSBC) is a body that oversees the negotiations and agreement between employers and employees in the small-scale business sector of South Africa. In 2015, the SSSBC introduced a new agreement known as SSSBC Agreement 3 of 2015. This agreement covers a range of issues, from wages and working hours to leave entitlements and dispute resolution.

One of the main highlights of the agreement is the increase in minimum wages for workers in small-scale businesses. Depending on the sector and job category, employees can expect to earn between R2,000 to R7,000 per month. This increase was necessary to address the widening income gap and to ensure that workers in the small-scale business sector are given a fair wage for their labour.

Another key component of the agreement is the standardisation of working hours. The SSSBC recognised that long working hours are not beneficial to the health and wellbeing of employees. Thus, the agreement sets a limit on working hours and overtime pay. Workers are entitled to a maximum of 45 hours per week, and any additional hours worked must be compensated at a higher rate.

The SSSBC Agreement 3 of 2015 also covers leave entitlements, which include annual leave, sick leave, family responsibility leave, and study leave. This provision ensures that workers are given sufficient time off to rest and attend to personal and familial matters. Additionally, the agreement sets out a process for resolving disputes between employers and employees. This process involves mediation and arbitration, which are designed to be fair and efficient.

In conclusion, the SSSBC Agreement 3 of 2015 is an important step towards improving the working conditions and welfare of small-scale business workers in South Africa. The agreement addresses critical issues, such as minimum wages, working hours, leave entitlements and dispute resolution, which are often neglected in the informal sector. By establishing a set of standards and guidelines, the SSSBC is ensuring that small-scale businesses treat their employees with dignity and respect.