CYBERJAYA: The Occupational Safety and Health (Amendment) Act 2022 is set to be enforced starting June 1, aiming to enhance workplace safety and health standards nationwide, announced Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong.
Sim stated that he had signed the gazette to expedite the act’s implementation, which had been delayed for nearly two years.
“Within my first 100 days in office, I have signed the gazette to bring the amended act into effect,” he said during the World Day for Safety and Health celebration.
Initially passed by Parliament on March 16, 2022, the amended act requires employers to conduct workplace risk assessments and appoint a health and safety coordinator.
“Companies with at least five employees must designate a coordinator. This enforcement is highly anticipated by occupational safety and health practitioners. The introduction of trained coordinators is expected to create a safer work environment,” he explained.
Additionally, Sim highlighted that 13,000 workers nationwide will undergo the Occupational Mental Health First Aid training programme this year. Since its launch in February, 4,000 workers have already completed the training, reflecting strong participation.
“This initiative aims to reinforce workplace safety and health practices, with mental health being a key focus of the ministry,” he added.
During the event, 2,500 occupational safety and health practitioners took an integrity pledge, setting a new record in the Malaysian Book of Records for ‘The Largest Integrity Pledge by OSH Practitioners in Malaysia.’ – Source BERNAMA
