PAIA Manual

1. Particulars of the body

2. Guide on how to use PAIA

The Information Regulator has published a guide on how to use PAIA, including the manner in which requests must be made and the fees payable. The guide is available from the Information Regulator at inforegulator.org.za and from our Information Officer on request.

3. Records available without a PAIA request

The following records are available on our website or on request, without a formal PAIA request: our privacy policy, terms of service, cookie policy, refund and cancellation policy, service descriptions, quotations, and general company information.

4. Records held

Subject to the grounds for refusal in PAIA, we hold records in the following categories:

• Company and statutory records: registration documents, directors' records, resolutions, tax and accounting records.
• Client and supplier records: contracts, quotations, invoices, statements, correspondence, project documentation and support records.
• Human resources records: employee and contractor records, payroll, leave, performance and disciplinary records.
• Technical and security records: system logs, access records, incident reports, backup records and configuration documentation.
• Legal records: legal advice, dispute records, insurance records and regulatory correspondence.
• Marketing records: website content, campaign records and communication preferences.

5. How to request access

Requests must be made in writing on the prescribed request form, addressed to the Information Officer. The request must include:

• your full name and contact details;
• enough detail to identify the record requested;
• the form of access you require (for example, a copy or inspection);
• your capacity and, where applicable, proof of authority to act for another person;
• the prescribed request fee, where applicable.

Send requests to info@blackbartechnologies.co.za with the subject line “PAIA request”, or deliver them to the physical address above. We may ask for proof of identity before processing a request.

6. Fees

The fees prescribed under PAIA apply. These may include a request fee, a search and preparation fee, and a fee for copies or transcription. We will give you a written estimate before incurring any fee, and we may require a deposit. Fees are subject to change in line with the regulations.

7. Timeframes

We will respond to a request within 30 days after receiving a valid request and the applicable fee, unless an extension is permitted under PAIA. If we need an extension, we will notify you in writing and explain the reason.

8. Grounds for refusal

A request may be refused, in whole or in part, on the grounds set out in PAIA, including where the record contains third-party personal information, commercial confidential information, legal privilege, or information that would prejudice a legitimate interest protected by PAIA. If part of a record can be disclosed without revealing the protected information, we will disclose that part.

9. Remedies

If a request is refused, you may lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator or apply to a court for review, as provided in PAIA. The Information Regulator's contact details are:

10. Availability of this manual

This manual is available on our website and at our offices. A copy may be requested from the Information Officer. We may update this manual from time to time; the current version is published on this page.