Book excerpt: Labour Law Rules! is a book designed primarily as an introductory text for students encountering labour law for the first time, whether their goal is a law degree or some other discipline involving a basic knowledge of the labour relations regulatory regime in South Africa. In the past two years, since publication of the first edition of Labour Law Rules!, some significant events took place which impacted on labour law, resulting in a number of changes proposed to reform labour law. The new edition of Labour Law Rules! aims to lay a sound and up to date foundation of basic labour law rules which will enable students to be empowered to assist in shaping the future working environment and laws of the country. The second edition of the bestselling text book Labour Law Rules! continues to provide a highly accessible text on labour, equity, social security, skills development and related laws, fully updated to include the latest changes and amendments in labour law in South Africa. It discusses these laws against the backdrop of South Africa as a member state of the ILO and the economic and socio-economic context in the country.