Introduction: The State of Workplace Safety in Malaysia

I have worked in the manufacturing industry for many years, and this experience has shown me both the strengths and the shortcomings of the workers’ workplaces. Unfortunately, many Malaysian workers in the manufacturing sector still do not fully understand their rights when it comes to workplace safety and health, nor do they realize how existing regulations are meant to protect them.

A Real-Life Incident: The Impact of Ignoring Workplace Safety Regulations

This year, I witnessed an incident that really highlighted the need for workers to be aware of these regulations. In the workers’ section, there were initially four workers, each of the workers responsible for carrying a load of around 23.5 kg every 20 to 35 minutes. The task involved lifting these heavy loads from the ground to a height higher than shoulder level, and the work area was often wet, making conditions quite challenging.

One worker developed chronic back pain, requiring frequent visits to a physiotherapist over several months. The rest of the workers also experienced occasional back pain due to the nature of the workers’ duties. Despite this, the workers did not have chairs to rest on or a suitable place to write reports—just a small table without any seats.

Workforce Reduction: A Critical Decision with Consequences for Workplace Safety

One day, the head of production made a sudden decision to reduce the workforce from four workers to three. This decision was made without any consultation, and the workers were all deeply concerned. We knew that reducing the staff would increase the workers’ workload, leading to more exhaustion and a higher risk of back injuries. In the end, three of the workers left the company because the workers felt the workers’ concerns regarding workplace safety were not being addressed.

The Importance of Safety Education and Workplace Safety Regulations

This experience made me realize how important it is to educate workers about their rights under Malaysian safety and health regulations. According to the Malaysian Guidelines on Ergonomics, employers have a responsibility to ensure that the workload is manageable, the working environment is safe, and proper ergonomic practices are followed to prevent injuries like back pain. Employers are required to provide appropriate equipment, training, and regular breaks, especially when tasks involve repetitive heavy lifting.

As specified in the Guidelines on Ergonomics Risk Assessment at Workplace (2017), employers must also ensure that manual handling tasks are risk-assessed, and where possible, mechanical aids such as trolleys or lifting devices should be provided to reduce the physical burden on workers. Loads should be supported on wheels whenever feasible to minimize manual lifting efforts. Additionally, workers must be given adequate training on safe lifting techniques and ergonomic practices to prevent musculoskeletal disorders.

Key Safety Tips for Workers to Ensure Workplace Safety

Here are some key points from the Guidelines for Manual Handling at Workplace (2018) that every worker should know to protect themselves in the industry:

1. Proper Lifting Techniques for Workplace Safety

• Always use correct lifting techniques. Lift with your legs, not your back, and avoid twisting your body when lifting. Keep the load close to your body to minimize strain.

2. Weight Limits for Workplace Safety

• Be aware of the recommended weight limits for manual handling tasks. For frequent lifting or tasks involving awkward postures, reduce the load accordingly.

3. Use of Mechanical Aids to Enhance Workplace Safety

• Whenever possible, use mechanical aids like trolleys or pallet jacks to assist in moving heavy loads. This reduces the physical effort required and minimizes the risk of injury.

4. Repetitive Tasks and Workplace Safety

• Avoid repetitive lifting whenever possible. If tasks involve frequent lifting, take regular breaks and reduce the weight to avoid strain injuries.

5. Pushing and Pulling for Workplace Safety

• When pushing or pulling loads, keep your hands between knuckle and shoulder height and use well-maintained handling aids to reduce strain.

6. Ergonomics Training for Improved Workplace Safety

• Workers should receive ergonomics training to recognize the risks associated with manual handling and learn how to avoid injuries. Early reporting of any symptoms such as pain or discomfort is crucial for intervention.

Additional Guidelines for Worker Safety to Ensure a Safe Workplace

Additionally, from the Guidelines on Ergonomics Risk Assessment at Workplace (2017), workers should be aware of the following important points to ensure their safety:

1. Ergonomics Risk Identification for Workplace Safety

• Workers should participate in identifying ergonomics risks by observing manual handling tasks and reporting any hazards they notice, such as awkward postures, excessive force requirements, or repetitive movements. Early identification helps in implementing preventive measures.

2. Use of Appropriate Equipment for Workplace Safety

• It is crucial to use equipment designed to assist with manual handling tasks. Tools such as trolleys, lifting aids, or properly adjusted workstations can significantly reduce the physical burden on workers and minimize risks.

3. Workplace Design for Enhanced Safety

• The design of the workplace should support safe manual handling practices. This includes having sufficient space to maneuver, appropriate working heights to reduce bending, and clear, dry surfaces to minimize the risk of slips and falls.

4. Proper Rest and Breaks to Maintain Workplace Safety

• Employers should allow adequate rest breaks to help workers recover from physically demanding tasks. Workers should take these opportunities to rest and avoid prolonged static postures that can lead to fatigue and injury.

5. Employer Responsibilities for Ensuring Workplace Safety

• Employers have the duty to continuously assess and manage the risks associated with manual handling. This includes providing necessary resources, ensuring regular inspections, and offering training that is updated based on the latest ergonomic practices.

Conclusion: Advocating for Safer Workplaces

If these guidelines had been followed in the workers’ workplace, I believe my coworkers could have avoided the health issues the workers faced. It’s crucial that workers understand these regulations and advocate for safer working conditions. After all, no one should have to put their health at risk just to do their job.

For those in the manufacturing sector, take a moment to learn about the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) 1994, which lays out employers’ duties to ensure a safe workplace. The Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) also provides resources and support to address ergonomic hazards.

Sharing my story, I hope to raise awareness among workers about the importance of workplace safety and health standards. By knowing your rights, you can protect yourself and make sure your workplace is doing what it should to keep you safe.