Haze: MEF calls for workplace risk assessments to protect employees

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) has urged employers to take proactive measures to protect employees' safety, health and welfare as haze conditions worsen, including adjusting work arrangements in line with prevailing air quality and occupational safety requirements.

MEF senior adviser for Government, Media and International Engagement Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman said employers have a statutory duty under the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (OSHA) to ensure, so far as is practicable, the safety, health and welfare of employees at work.

"The worsening haze is a reminder that employees' safety and health must remain a priority for every employer. Exposure to polluted air may affect workers' well-being, particularly those engaged in outdoor activities and employees with existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions," he said in a statement today.

Syed Hussain urged employers not to wait until air quality deteriorates significantly before taking action.

"By monitoring the Air Pollutant Index (API), identifying employees who may be more vulnerable and implementing appropriate preventive measures, employers can reduce exposure risks and protect their workforce," he said.

MEF also called on employers to ensure air-conditioning and ventilation systems are properly maintained, with suitable filtration systems serviced as needed to minimise polluted outdoor air entering while maintaining adequate indoor air quality.

Where exposure cannot be adequately avoided, employers should provide suitable respiratory protection, such as certified N95 respirators, based on the level of risk and nature of the work.

MEF added that employers should consider temporary reassignment to indoor duties or other reasonable work adjustments for employees who may be more susceptible to the effects of haze, including older workers, pregnant employees and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.

Flexible working arrangements and temporary remote work could also be considered, where practicable and suitable for the nature of the job, to reduce employees' exposure.

Syed Hussain said protecting employees and maintaining business continuity should not be viewed as competing objectives, as early intervention, sensible work adjustments and clear communication could help businesses manage health risks while minimising unnecessary disruption.

"MEF recognises that employers operate in different environments and that the risks faced by an office employee may differ considerably from those faced by a construction worker, security personnel or an employee performing outdoor maintenance," he said.

Employees, meanwhile, should follow workplace safety instructions, use the protective equipment provided, stay adequately hydrated, and promptly inform supervisors if they experience breathing difficulties, chest discomfort, or other concerning symptoms.

Syed Hussain said decisions to continue, modify or suspend work should be supported by appropriate risk assessments and necessary preventive measures.

"Ultimately, a safe and healthy workforce is essential to sustainable business operations.

"The priority is to reduce preventable exposure, protect employees' well-being and ensure that work resumes or continues only when the risks can be adequately managed," he added.

Johor and Selangor remain the states worst affected by haze, with 24 air quality monitoring stations nationwide recording unhealthy levels as of 8.30am today.