THE report highlighting low occupational safety and health (OSH) compliance by industries, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), is a matter of serious concern, "OSH compliance still low" (The Star, March 27).
Workplace safety must never be treated as optional or secondary. Every worker has the fundamental right to return home safely at the end of the day, and employers have a legal and moral duty to ensure a safe working environment.
Low OSH compliance exposes workers to preventable accidents, injuries, occupational diseases and even fatalities. Beyond the human suffering, poor safety practices also lead to productivity losses, compensation claims, reputational damage and increased healthcare costs.
In the long run, neglecting safety is far more expensive than investing in prevention. A strong OSH culture improves morale, reduces downtime, enhances efficiency and strengthens business sustainability.
SMEs often face challenges such as limited financial resources, lack of technical expertise and insufficient awareness of OSH requirements. However, these constraints should not compromise workers’ safety.
Safety must be integrated into business operations regardless of company size.
To ensure greater OSH compliance, several measures should be considered.
First, strengthen awareness and education. Many SMEs may not fully understand their OSH obligations. Government agencies, industry associations and chambers of commerce should intensify outreach programmes, provide simplified guidelines and offer practical training tailored specifically for SMEs. Easy-to-understand compliance tool kits and advisory services will help employers take the necessary steps.
Second, introduce incentives to encourage compliance. The government should consider reducing import duties and taxes on personal protective equipment (PPE) and other safety devices. Making PPE more affordable will encourage employers, especially SMEs, to invest in proper safety equipment. Additional incentives could include tax deductions for OSH investments, grants for safety upgrades and recognition schemes for companies with exemplary safety records.
Third, strengthen enforcement and accountability. While education and incentives are important, enforcement must also be firm and consistent. Regular inspections, risk-based audits and stricter penalties for repeated non-compliance are necessary to deter negligence. Enforcement should focus not only on punishment but also corrective action, requiring employers to rectify hazards within a specified time frame.
Fourth, promote shared responsibility. Employers, employees, unions and regulators must work together. Workers should be encouraged to report unsafe conditions without fear of reprisal. Safety committees at workplaces, including SMEs, should be strengthened to monitor compliance and promote a culture of prevention.
Fifth, leverage technology and simple compliance systems. Digital reporting tools, safety checklists and self-assessment platforms can help SMEs monitor compliance without heavy administrative burden.
Improving OSH compliance is not just about meeting regulations - it is also about protecting lives, safeguarding livelihoods and building responsible businesses.
Prevention must always be our priority. A nation that values its workforce must ensure that safety and health are embedded in every workplace.
Safety is not a cost - it is an investment in people, productivity, and the nation’s future.
TAN SRI LEE LAM THYE
Chairman
Alliance For A Safe Community
