Adhere to the Occupational Safety and Health Act to ensure workers’ safety, Niosh urges employers

PETALING JAYA: There is a pressing need for employers to strictly adhere to the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994, says the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (Niosh).

“This is to ensure the safety and well-being of workers at their workplaces,” it added.

The institute made the call after three Bangladeshi workers were buried alive in a landslide while working at a highway construction site in Machang of Kelantan on Thursday (Nov 2).

Extending its condolences over the tragic incident, Niosh has called employers and workers to practice the Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Risk Control (HIRARC) method.

“Under the amended Act, the duties of the employers have now been extended to include contractors, subcontractors and the employees they engage.

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“Through HIRARC, employers will be able to mitigate risks and enhance workplace safety proactively,” it said in a statement on Friday (Nov 3).

The institute has also emphasised the importance of occupational safety and health training for workers to enhance their knowledge and skills in identifying and responding to potential hazards at the workplace.

It encouraged employers to invest in comprehensive training programmes that empower their workforce to take appropriate measures to protect themselves and their colleagues.

Niosh also highlighted the pivotal role of the site safety supervisor in overseeing and maintaining a safe work environment.

“They are responsible for monitoring safety protocols, conducting safety inspections and ensuring that all workers are well-informed of the potential risks to prevent any tragedies (in the future).

“We believe that every worker has the right to a safe and healthy workplace, and it is our collective responsibility to make this a reality,” it added.