BCCEI manages dispute resolution in the civil engineering sector
The Dispute Resolution Centre of the Bargaining Council for the Civil Engineering Industry (BCCEI) handles disputes specific to the civil engineering sector industry and is accredited by the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).
BCCEI Dispute Resolution Centre manager Merle Denson stresses that dispute resolution is not only a means to solve conflicts but also a vital aspect of good business management. “It prevents conflicts from escalating, saving both time and money, and additionally, it offers an alternative to costly court proceedings,” she says.
Accreditation by the CCMA ensures that disputes are resolved within legal parameters. The Centre emphasises that its panel of commissioners with deep industry knowledge and experience, guarantees expert handling of complex civil engineering issues. Moreover, it prioritises accessibility by scheduling cases regionally, minimising financial burdens and time constraints for parties.
The Centre's services are backed by a funding mechanism, where employers and employees contribute to the cost of dispute resolution through payment of a monthly levy. Online dispute resolution services are also offered, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs.
In dismissal cases referred to the Dispute Resolution Centre, the process involves referral, notice of hearing, conciliation, arbitration and potential settlement agreements. Commissioners and arbitrators are appointed by the BCCEI and are tasked with ensuring fair and efficient resolution.
“Effective dispute resolution is vital for the civil engineering industry's stability and fairness, and the BCCEI and its Dispute Resolution Centre provide accessible, expert and efficient mechanisms for resolving industry-specific disputes, fostering a harmonious work environment,” Denson concludes.