It strove to build a tight national federation to work towards an industrial workers' bloc firmly based in strong grassroots organisation on the factory floor.

[5] It became the first truly national non-racial trade union federation in South African history, building unity and avoiding the regionalism which had pervaded earlier attempts at such an organisation.

[6] While the unions affiliated primarily organised black workers, their leadership, and that of FOSATU, was mixed, and included white activists in some prominent positions.

However, despite applying for multi-racial status, the government issued six of the unions with certificates which only permitted the organisation of black workers.

[7] The federation initially opposed industrial councils, arguing that they moved unions away from plant-based negotiations, and often compelled affiliates to renounce the right to strike.