The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in KwaZulu-Natal has confirmed the closure of its W-Section office in eMaweleni, uMlazi, following a prohibition notice issued by the Department of Employment and Labour.
The office was found to be non-compliant, with concerns raised about conditions that posed safety risks to employees.
The closure took effect on 21 October.
Amid speculation on social media about the structural stability of the building, KZN SASSA spokesperson Mbizeni Mdlalose clarified that the closure was not related to concerns about the building's structural integrity.
Mdlalose says the decision followed issues involving electricity and a leaking roof, which prompted the department to issue the prohibition notice on safety grounds.
He also confirmed that no injuries had been reported.
SASSA says contingency measures have been put in place to ensure beneficiaries and applicants continue to access services while the office remains closed.
Mdlalose has urged affected clients to visit nearby offices in Chatsworth, Durban Station, Wentworth, Lamontville, Nsimbini and Umnini, near Umgababa, for assistance with their queries and applications.
The agency says these offices are ready to assist clients with their social grant-related needs during the closure.