Measures to be taken to reduce work site accidents, says ministry

MARAN: The Human Resources Ministry will continue to adopt pro-active measures in a move to reduce accidents at work sites.

Its deputy minister Datuk Ismail Abdul Muttalib said statistics last year showed a slight drop in work sites accidents, a decline of 0.9% as compared to 2012.

However, Ismail said accidents involving workers commuting to and from work was still high and more awareness campaigns should be carried out.

“The ministry through its Department of Occupational Safety and Health conducted more than 210,000 inspections at work sites.

“Out of that, 18,186 notices were issued to premise owners to improve safety standards,” he said while launching the state-level health and safety campaign at schools here recently.

Ismail, who is the Maran MP, said another 415 premises were slapped with compounds for various violations.

He said legal actions were also taken against 350 premise owners for ignoring safety and health of their workers.

On the campaign, Ismail urged the Education Department not to neglect the welfare, health and safety of teachers and students.

He said all aspects must be looked into to avoid any untoward incident occuring during school hours.

On a separate matter, Ismail said a total of 448 households in the district who were affected by last year’s floods were given financial assistance.

Of the amount, RM500 were by the Federal Government and another RM250 contributed by the state government.

He said the Government would continue to look after the welfare of the people, especially victims of natural disasters.