Work-Related Accidents In Malaysia Still High- MTUC

KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 (Bernama) -- Workplace-related accidents in Malaysia have continued to rise, with 57,639 cases reported in 2010 compared to 55,186 in 2009, Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) vice-president A. Balasubramaniam said Saturday. He said the figure is derived from statistics compiled by the Social Security Organisation (Socso). "Malaysia's work-related accidents are considered high, taking into account the number of workers we have. We are a small nation with a relatively small population, resulting in a small number of workers. The only thing high is work- related accidents," he told Bernama. Balasubramaniam issued the statement in conjunction with International Commemoration Day for Dead and Injured Workers Saturday. A staggering two million people have died from workplace-related accidents worldwide over the last 17 years, while another 1.2 million were injured and more than 160 million workers fell ill due to unsafe, unhealthy and unsuitable workplaces during the period. Balasubramaniam said the present safety and health laws were self-regulated and, as such, many employers gave less priority to the safe workplace concept. He said employers should ensure that their workplace is safe, harmless and accident-free at all times. "A safe working environment and an efficient system to achieve that is a must in all companies. The use of green technology can also eliminate hazardous working conditions and would contribute to reducing work-related accidents," he added. He called on the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) not to hesitate prosecuting employers who do not comply with safety procedures. He said the heavy industries sector must take the lead in ensuring a safe workplace as it was categorised as a high-risk area for workplace accidents. -- BERNAMA