A manufacturing company in Penang was fined RM120,000 by the Sessions Court in Butterworth on May 4 for failing to implement engineering controls to reduce workplace noise exposure [1]. The company pleaded guilty under Section 18B(2) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 for not carrying out recommended noise control measures, including installing physical noise barriers around machines [1].
Two workers at the company suffered Noise Induced Hearing Loss, which occupational health officers confirmed resulted from prolonged exposure to industrial noise at the workplace [1]. The penalty under Section 18B carries a maximum fine of RM500,000 and/or a jail term of up to two years [1].
The prosecution was conducted by Abdul Rahim Sabri, an officer from the Penang Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH). The investigation was led by Ir. Abdul Hafiz Ahmad and Norfaiza Fadil [1]. Penang DOSH stated enforcement efforts will be intensified to ensure workplace safety, emphasizing that they will not compromise on employers failing to comply with legal requirements [1].
The fine was imposed yesterday by the Sessions Court in Butterworth. The company now faces further scrutiny to ensure compliance with noise control regulations [1].