What Is An OSH Coordinator?
The Department Of Safety & Health Malaysia has announced the Occupational Safety and Health (Amendment) Act 2022. In this amendment, they have introduced a new rule under Section 29A whereby an employer must appoint an Occupational Safety and Health Coordinator for the purpose of coordinating occupational safety and health issues at the place of work.
REQUIREMENTS
● SMEs with more than 5 employees
● Place of work is not included
in any class or description in the Gazette under subsection 29(1)
Why Is Having An OSH-Coordinator Important?
Having an Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) coordinator is important for several reasons. These are the basic responsibilities associated with the role, along with their importance to the company and employees:
1. Ensuring Compliance
- Stay updated on relevant health and safety regulations and standards.
- Develop and implement policies and procedures to meet regulatory requirements.
- Conduct regular audits and inspections to ensure compliance.
Importance: Compliance with OSHA requirements is crucial for employers to avoid legal issues, penalties, and fines. It helps maintain the organization’s reputation and ensures the well-being of employees.
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2. Creating a Safe Work Environment
- Identify potential hazards and assess risks within the workplace.
- Implement safety measures, such as providing protective equipment and ensuring proper ventilation.
- Develop emergency response plans and conduct safety drills.
Importance: A safe work environment reduces the risk of accidents, injuries, and illnesses. It promotes employee well-being, job satisfaction, and productivity while minimizing absenteeism and related costs.
3. Risk Management
- Conduct risk assessments to identify potential hazards and evaluate their severity.
- Develop risk mitigation strategies and implement preventive measures.
- Investigate incidents and accidents to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
Importance: Effective risk management minimizes workplace accidents, injuries, and associated costs. It helps protect employees and assets while ensuring business continuity and productivity.
4. Employee Welfare
- Provide OSHA training and education on safety practices and procedures.
- Promote safety awareness and encourage employee participation in safety initiatives.
- Investigate and address employee safety concerns or reports.
Importance: Prioritizing employee welfare fosters a positive work culture, boosts morale, and improves employee retention. It demonstrates the organization’s commitment to employee well-being and fosters a sense of trust and loyalty.
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5. Productivity and Efficiency
- Identify safety-related inefficiencies or risks that may hinder productivity.
- Streamline safety protocols and procedures to minimize disruptions.
- Monitor safety metrics and analyze data to identify areas for improvement.
Importance: A safe work environment enhances productivity and efficiency by reducing accidents, injuries, and associated downtime. It allows employees to focus on their tasks and contributes to the overall success of the organization.
6. Reputation and Stakeholder Confidence
- Communicate the organization’s commitment to safety to stakeholders.
- Respond promptly and effectively to safety concerns or incidents.
- Promote safety achievements and initiatives internally and externally.
Importance: Maintaining a good safety record enhances the organization’s reputation, builds stakeholder confidence, and attracts clients, customers, investors, and partners who prioritize workplace safety.
7. Career Growth
- Stay updated on industry trends, best practices, and advancements in occupational safety and health.
- Pursue professional certifications and continuous education opportunities.
- Seek opportunities for professional networking and collaboration.
- Highlighted as a trained person of OSH Coordinator at the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) website upon completion of OSH Coordinator training course.
Importance: Career growth and professional development are essential for an OSH coordinator. Career growth opportunities, such as promotions or advancements to higher-level safety positions, provide motivation and job satisfaction for the OSH coordinator, leading to increased dedication and performance in their role.
