Duties

Duties.co.za provides clear explanations of job duties, roles, and responsibilities across industries. Understand what each job involves, key tasks, and expectations before applying or hiring.

Duties Explained | Job Roles, Responsibilities & Tasks

  • Evs Job Duties

    An Environmental Services (EVS) department plays a critical role in maintaining a clean, safe and hygienic environment in facilities such as hospitals, clinics, hotels, offices and public buildings. “EVS job duties” generally refer to the daily tasks of Environmental Services Workers, Cleaners or Housekeepers who ensure that spaces remain sanitary and compliant with health and…

  • Criminal Justice Duties

    Criminal Justice Duties in South Africa: What You Need to Know Criminal justice duties in South Africa are spread across several key institutions: the South African Police Service (SAPS), the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the courts, correctional services, and oversight bodies. Understanding who does what in the criminal justice chain is essential for anyone interested…

  • Mayor Duties

    Understanding Mayor Duties in South Africa: Roles, Powers and Responsibilities In South Africa, “mayor duties” are defined mainly by the Constitution, municipal legislation and each municipality’s own rules. While exact responsibilities differ between municipalities, there are clear core functions that appear consistently across credible government sources. This article explains key mayor duties in the South…

  • Groundskeeper Job Duties

    Groundskeeper Job Duties: A Complete Guide for South African Properties Groundskeepers play a crucial role in keeping outdoor spaces safe, attractive and functional. In South Africa, groundskeeper job duties typically focus on maintaining gardens, lawns, sports fields, parks, estates, commercial premises and institutional grounds such as schools and universities. Below is a detailed, fact-based overview…

  • List Of General Office Administration Duties

    Office administration is the backbone of any successful business, ensuring that day‑to‑day operations run smoothly, efficiently and in compliance with company policies. Below is a comprehensive, SEO‑optimised List Of General Office Administration Duties, drawn from credible South African and international business resources and aligned with the type of services highlighted on the Duties website at…

  • Clearing And Forwarding Agent Duties

    Clearing And Forwarding Agent Duties in South Africa: A Practical Guide In South African trade and logistics, clearing and forwarding agent duties are central to moving cargo efficiently through ports, borders and airports. These agents (often called customs brokers or freight forwarders) help importers and exporters meet legal requirements, arrange international transport and manage complex…

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Duties

1. What is the main difference between duties and responsibilities?

Duties are obligations that are expected or required by law, ethics, or social norms. Responsibilities, on the other hand, involve personal accountability for completing tasks or managing outcomes. Duties are often mandatory, while responsibilities may allow more personal discretion in how they are fulfilled.


2. What are examples of legal duties?

Legal duties are obligations enforced by law. Common examples include:

  • Paying taxes
  • Obeying traffic laws
  • Reporting certain crimes
  • Fulfilling contractual obligations

Failure to meet legal duties can result in penalties, fines, or legal consequences.


3. What are positive and negative duties?

Positive duties require you to take action, such as helping someone in danger or providing care to a patient.
Negative duties require you to refrain from certain actions, such as lying, stealing, or causing harm.

Both types of duties help maintain ethical standards and social order.


4. Are moral duties legally enforceable?

No. Moral duties are based on ethics, conscience, or cultural norms and are not usually enforced by law. However, they are essential for maintaining trust, integrity, and ethical relationships in society.


5. What are examples of civic duties?

Civic duties are obligations individuals have as members of a society or country. Examples include:

  • Voting in elections
  • Serving on a jury
  • Obeying laws
  • Participating in community initiatives

These duties support democratic systems and community well-being.


6. Why are professional duties important?

Professional duties ensure trust, accountability, and competence in the workplace. For example, healthcare professionals have a duty of care toward patients, and lawyers must maintain client confidentiality. Fulfilling professional duties protects clients, employers, and the public.


7. Why do duties matter in everyday life?

Duties guide behavior, promote fairness, and build trust in personal and professional relationships. By fulfilling duties, individuals contribute to social stability, ethical standards, and stronger communities.