IR Annual Conference

The Evolving Workplace: New Frontiers in Industrial Relations

Technology, culture, testing, beliefs and employee rights in modern workplaces

Workplaces in 2026 are shaped by rapid technological change, shifting social norms, and diverse belief systems. Employers are expected to balance operational requirements with employee rights.

This conference unpacks the tough IR questions organisations are facing right now.

Why You Can’t Miss This IR Annual Conference?

• Practical, real-world IR guidance
• Insight into emerging workplace risks
• Learn from real cases and relevant scenarios
• Protect your organisation from costly disputes
• Equip yourself for the workplace of the future

This is not theory. This is the real world of work.

Topics Covered

1.        Breathalyser test in the workplace

• Practical demonstration and explanation on how breathalysers work and measure alcohol levels in the body.
• Intoxication from beverages, medication, and food?
• Best practices for alcohol testing in the workplace – legal, health, and safety considerations.

2.        Polygraphs – Observe a practical demonstration, and be guided on:

• How accurate are polygraphs and how they work.
• Can you use polygraph tests in the workplace?
• Employee vs employer rights – practical and legal considerations.
• Interpreting results and understand their limitations.

3.        Social Media – Workplace Risks & Pitfalls

• Inappropriate content and its impact on the employer’s reputation.
• Managing disciplinary action arising from Inappropriate content on social media.

4.        Sick leave and sick notes:

• Acceptable sick notes, tele-health, clinics, and traditional healers

5.        Parental leave – how to manage it in the workplace.

• Managing the usage of the 4 months + 10 days of parental leave between parents.
• When can it be used, can both parents take leave at the same time?
• What if only one parent is employed vs both being employed?

6.        Harassment vs romance

• Power imbalances and their impact on harassment cases.
• Employer duties under the Code of Good Practice on Harassment.

7.        Trade Unions

• Trade union organisational rights vs employer rights.
• Can a shop steward bring in an external trade union official for representation?
• Managing shop steward conduct: dishonesty, misrepresentation, and insubordination

Who Should Attend?

• HR Managers & Practitioners
• Industrial & Employee Relations Specialists
• Executives and Line Management
• Labour Consultants
• Compliance & Risk Professionals

Are you ready for the workplace realities of 2026?
Join us for a bold, practical, and engaging IR Conference that tackles the issues everyone is dealing with—but few want to confront.

Secure your seat today!

Enquiries

Tel: 011 298 9400

Email: info@seifsa.co.za