The Professional Register is governed by the Professional Affairs Committee (PAC). The PAC is responsible for the definition and status of the professional interests of the Society. The Professional Register has been compiled in the spirit that the Society feels it is in the best interests of its members to order its own affairs, rather than have this done by some outside agency. Registration is voluntary and signifies the intent on the part of the member to abide by an agreed code of ethics as well as being an endorsement of the competence of the member by the Professional Affairs Committee (PAC). However, non-registration does not necessarily imply a lack of competence on the part of any member as registration is purely a voluntary matter.

The most up-to-date register is obtainable on written request from the Administrator of the GSSA. This register is compiled and presented in good faith. Details submitted by registrants are checked insofar as is possible by the PAC of the GSSA. Whereas every care is taken in the compilation of the register, neither the GSSA nor its council nor any of its agents accept direct or indirect responsibility for any losses or damages arising from use or misuse of the register.

The South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) exists to protect the community against incompetent practitioners, to gain international recognition and to increase professionalism and competence amongst natural scientists. It also advises higher education institutions on training of natural scientists and collaborates on quality control and accreditation of programmes.

According to South African law, anyone who offers their expertise (i.e. consults) must be registered with SACNASP. The PAC has been following this issue for some time, as it directly affects most GSSA members. For further information, please contact Prof Leslie Brown, the current PAC Chairman.

The SACNASP Information Brochure and Application Form are available for downloading.