JOHANNESBURG – A law firm has warned that construction sites need to update their employment records ahead of anti-immigration protests scheduled for Tuesday 30 June 2026.
The protests are particularly related to the employment of foreign nationals.
MDA lawyers, experts in construction law, warned on Sunday, June 28, 2026, of possible disruptions that are a direct threat to project execution that these companies need to prepare for now.
The company warns that construction sites are vulnerable because they are generally more visible and physically open than most workplaces.
These enterprises are located within communities and involve hierarchical workforce structures in which prime contractors, subcontractors, labor brokers, and temporary workers work together.
“If a site is disrupted, contractors may consider delays, blocked access, property damage and costly disputes, as seen in past disruptions such as the July 2021 riots in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng and ongoing ‘construction mafia’ activity,” warned MDA Legal Director Odette Potgieter.
These events have left contractors dealing with site closures, blocked or delayed deliveries, damaged goods, and long delays.
“The contractors were concerned about the profitability of the project,” Potgieter said.
“They needed to establish whether they could claim additional time and costs from their employer or insurance company, and whether force majeure clauses covering events outside of their control applied.
“Contractors that had clear procedures, good records, and contract compliance fared much better. The key element was providing timely and appropriate notice to support claims.”
What contractors should do now
Ensure employment and contractor records are complete and up-to-date Confirm in writing that subcontractors are responsible for their own compliance Ensure site staff is legally authorized to request or access documents Establish clear site protocols Designate one person to handle engagement with external groups Concisely tell security team what to do and who to call if something happens Start keeping detailed records now: site diaries, photos, correspondence, program updates, delivery records and client engagements.
In case of confusion
Depending on the contract, the contractor may be entitled to extensions of time, compensation, or even a complete suspension of work, but only if the correct procedures are followed, often within tight deadlines.
Most standard construction contracts have strict deadlines and procedures, and failure to meet them can result in the complete loss of a valid claim.
By maintaining clear records, engaging with clients early, and keeping stakeholders updated as events unfold, contractors are in a much better position.
“Contractors who come out of a situation like this rarely manage to make it on the day,” Potgieter said.
“They are the ones who saw it coming, were aware of the risks and were already taking practical steps in advance of the potential risks.”
