Several business premises in Lenasia were inspected on Thursday, 10 September, during a joint operation aimed at checking health, safety and by-law compliance.
Officials from Environmental Health, Health, Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), City Parks and Zoo, Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA), Traffic Wardens, Town Planning Law Enforcement and Emergency Management Services (EMS) took part in the operation.
Environmental Health officials inspected two formal food premises and found both operating without a required Certificate of Acceptability (COA). Prohibitions were issued at both premises. Officials faced verbal confrontation from a bakery owner during one inspection. Enforcement activities continued despite the incident.
Two business licence spot fines of R3 500 each were issued during the operation. According to the City, Health Department fines totalled R12 000.
JMPD responded to a complaint about hawkers operating around Trade Route and Jiswa. Members of its By-Law Management Unit attended the area and removed hawkers as part of enforcement action.
Town Planning Law Enforcement officials visited seven properties and issued six notices. One R5 000 fine was issued for planning compliance under reference 65/79001/200. EMS Fire Safety also inspected two properties and issued notices relating to building plans. Poor health conditions and hygiene concerns were identified at some premises.
Owners were informed about issues requiring attention and given timeframes to address them. Some premises were prevented from continuing operations where officials found issues requiring immediate action.
The City said joint enforcement operations are aimed at improving compliance and protecting residents, workers and customers. Officials said operators must meet required health, safety and planning standards while complying with municipal by-laws.
