‘Workplaces still a big threat’

Safety first: People waiting to get their swab tests at Dewan Matahari, Seksyen U5 multipurpose hall, organised by DUN Kota Damansara. — GLENN GUAN/The Star

PUTRAJAYA: Covid-19 clusters stemming from workplaces show no signs of slowing down despite the implementation of the third movement control order 3.0, says Health director-general Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham.

He said between May 12 and May 26, there were 5,392 cases originating from outbreaks at workplaces, with more than half involving the manufacturing sector, which had caused the emergence of 62 infection clusters.

“Although the government announced the implementation of MCO 3.0 on May 12, the trend of clusters at workplaces had not shown any significant reduction, with 233 out of 593 active Covid-19 clusters nationwide being from workplaces.

“Of the 69,408 active cases in the country, 16,785 are linked to workplace clusters.

“The three states with the most number of workplace clusters are Selangor with 74, Johor with 53 and Penang with 31, ” he said in his daily Covid-19 statement yesterday.

Under MCO 3.0, the economic sector remains open.

Dr Noor Hisham also said MOH welcomes the International Trade and Industry Ministry’s Safe@Work initiative, which introduces new standard operating procedures meant to reduce infection spread at factories.

“MOH is advising employers to ensure that Covid-19 preventive measures are implemented at the workplace such as practising physical distancing.

“Employers are also urged to be proactive in ensuring these measures are adhered to at staff accommodation.

“As for workers, they must comply with workplace SOP at all times such as wearing face masks and avoiding close proximity with others.

“Do not come to work if you develop symptoms, ” he said.

Meanwhile, Malaysia registered yet another daily record of Covid-19 cases after 7,857 new infections were reported.

Cumulatively, the country has recorded 541,224 cases since the pandemic began.

A further 59 fatalities – all Malaysians – were also reported, bringing the coronavirus death toll to 2,491. Selangor had the most number of deaths with 19 cases.

A majority of the deaths involve those with comorbidities such as high blood pressure, diabetes and heart problems.

There were also three deaths which were classified as brought-in-dead.

Currently, there are 771 patients being treated at intensive care units nationwide, with 392 requiring breathing assistance.

MOH also uncovered 20 new clusters nationwide, with five detected in Johor, Kelantan and Sabah which are linked to house-to-house visits during the recent festive season.