Niosh tells bosses to stick to Act’s safety rules

PETALING JAYA: There is a pressing need for employers to strictly adhere to the Occupational Safety and Health Act (Osha) 1994 which is aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of workers at every workplace, said the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (Niosh).

The call comes after three Bangladeshi workers were buried alive in a landslide while working at a highway construction site in Machang, Kelantan, on Thursday.

The workers were reportedly climbing up the hole they were digging earlier when the soil collapsed, burying them in the noon incident.

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

“Niosh also encourages the employers and workers to practise the hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control (Hirarc) method, which helps identify potential hazards, assess risks and implement effective control measures,” Niosh said in a statement yesterday, where it also extended its condolences over the tragic incident.

The institute added that by implementing Hirarc, employers will be able to proactively mitigate risks and enhance workplace safety.

It further stressed the importance of occupational safety and health (OSH) training for workers, which equips workers with the necessary knowledge and skills to identify and respond to potential hazards at the workplace.

“Niosh strongly encourages employers to invest in comprehensive training programmes that empower their workforce to take appropriate measures to protect themselves and their colleagues,” said the institute, while also highlighting 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 about potential risks.

“It is essential for employers to designate responsible and competent individuals as site safety supervisors to prevent tragic accidents such as the one that occurred in Machang,” it said.