DOSH TO STEP UP ENFORCEMENT, SPOT CHECKS

BUTTERWORTH: There has been an alarming number of accidental deaths at construction sites in Penang, with 11 out of 22 cases reported in the area last year.

State Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) director Mohd Anuar Embi said fall from heights was the major cause of death at the project sites.

“Eight deaths were due to workers falling from heights.

“Breaches on the floor and wall were the main reason of the fall,” he said at Kompleks Sempilai Jaya near here recently.

Anuar said between January and April this year, a total of four deaths were reported.

He also cited falling objects as another leading cause of death at construction sites.

Anuar said the department was stepping up enforcement at the workplace, especially construction sites, to ensure the safety of workers and members of public around the area.

“We have conducted spot checks at 82 sites in Penang this year and have issued 184 notices with 51 compounds for various offences. Two cases have been brought to court.

“We have also issued 79 notices to stop construction work, 84 notices to improve the work area and 16 warning letters.

“Five machines were seized for technical-related offences,” he said.

Anuar said at least five spot checks would be conducted in Penang this year.

“Our objective is to ensure developers, contractors and construction workers observe safety and health regulations at the site.

“We will not compromise the safety and health of workers,” he said.

He said out of 431 active construction sites in the state, 122 were classified as high-risk, 205 as medium-risk and 104 as low-risk.

Mohd Anuar Embi (front row, left) briefing his enforcement officers on occupational safety and health issues at the workplace. Pic by Muhamad Syakir Abdul Wahab