In this study, population mortality tables for the 2001 and 2011 South African population are
constructed. The 2001 and 2011 census data as well as the vital registration data on deaths for the
period 2001 to 2011 were utilised to perform this task. The purpose of this study is to provide
an up-to-date tool for quantum of damage calculations and strategic planning, which might
be based on population mortality. The various applications also include calculations for state
compensation schemes, insurance and demographic studies. The paper considers possible trends
and patterns, in particular the effects of HIV and the use of antiretroviral drugs on population
mortality. It does not make predictions as to what future mortality levels might be. Various
comparisons to other South African tables are made, as well as comparisons to population tables
from other countries, to consider changes over time and differences between populations. The
tables also bridge the critique of using 30-year-old, and non-representative of our population,
SALT85 tables, currently still the norm for many quantum of damage calculations in industry