The Occupational Safety and Health Coordinator Workshop (OSH-C) 2024 was successfully conducted over two series at the Universiti Utara Malaysia, Sintok, Kedah.

Occupational Safety and Health Coordinator Workshop (OSH-C) 2024

Sintok, 12–14 August 2024 & 19–21 August 2024

The Occupational Safety and Health Coordinator Workshop (OSH-C) 2024 was held for 2 series. Series 1 took place from 12 to 14 August 2024, while Series 2 followed shortly after, from 19 to 21 August 2024. This workshop aimed to provide a deeper understanding of occupational safety and health (OSH) practices while equipping participants with the knowledge and skills to fulfill the role of an OSH Coordinator effectively.

The OSH-C Workshop was designed with the following key objectives:

1. Awareness and Exposure: To raise participants' awareness and provide comprehensive exposure to the principles of occupational safety and health.
2. Prevention-Focused Understanding: To enhance participants' understanding of early prevention strategies for maintaining safety and health in the workplace.
3. Introduction to OSH Coordination: To familiarize participants with the roles, duties, and responsibilities of an OSH Coordinator in managing occupational safety and health within their respective organizations.

The workshop was conducted in two series to accommodate participants from diverse sectors. Series 1 welcomed 20 participants, including members of the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) and representatives from various industries. Similarly, Series 2 engaged 22 participants from the same target groups. Both workshops were conducted in the Kedah Room in the School of Business Management (SBM) Building at UUM. 

Both workshops featured interactive sessions, hands-on activities, and in-depth lectures aimed at providing participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in OSH coordination.

The workshops were enriched by the expertise of invited speakers from the Social Security Organization (PERKESO) and the Persatuan Pendidik Ilmu Ikhtisas & Kemahiran Pekerjaan (PIKP), including:

1. Mr. Norazman Abd. Ghani – PERKESO representative, who shared insights on the role of PERKESO in promoting workplace safety and the responsibilities of OSH Coordinators in fostering a culture of prevention.
2. Ts. Mohamad Yusri bin Hj. Yusoff – PIKP representative, who delivered a comprehensive session on the integration of safety management systems in industrial practices.
3. Mr. Mohd. Yussaydi bin Md. Eusoff – PIKP representative, who highlighted the technical and operational responsibilities of OSH Coordinators.
4. Mr. Abdul Manaf bin Ahmad – PIKP representative, addressed the importance of leadership and communication skills in effectively coordinating OSH initiatives.

The OSH-C Workshop provided a holistic learning experience, covering various aspects of occupational safety and health. Key topics included:

• Understanding OSH Policies and Regulations: Participants were introduced to the OSH Act 1994 and relevant legal requirements for compliance in Malaysian workplaces.
• Risk Assessment and Hazard Identification: Practical exercises helped participants identify potential workplace hazards and implement appropriate risk mitigation measures.
• Emergency Preparedness and Response: Sessions emphasized the importance of having clear protocols for emergencies to minimize workplace disruptions and ensure employee safety.
• Role of the OSH Coordinator: Participants learned about the critical functions of an OSH Coordinator, including monitoring compliance, conducting safety audits, and promoting a proactive safety culture.

Participants actively engaged in the workshop through group discussions, case studies, and Q&A sessions. These activities provided them with the opportunity to share their workplace challenges and collaborate on developing practical solutions.

Feedback from the participants was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and network with peers from various sectors.

One participant, a safety officer from a manufacturing company, remarked, “This workshop has been incredibly insightful. I now have a clearer understanding of how to implement OSH practices effectively in my workplace. The hands-on activities were particularly helpful in solidifying my knowledge.”

A Royal Malaysian Police representative also shared, “The knowledge I’ve gained here will undoubtedly help me enhance safety protocols within my unit. I’m grateful for this learning opportunity.”

The OSH-C Workshop 2024 underscored the importance of equipping workplace leaders with the tools and knowledge needed to ensure a safe and healthy working environment. By training OSH Coordinators, the program contributed to fostering a culture of prevention and responsibility across various sectors.

The organizers, SOSCoE, PERKESO, and PIKP, emphasized their commitment to continuing such initiatives in the future. They highlighted the significance of empowering individuals to take ownership of workplace safety and health, ultimately contributing to national development goals.

The Occupational Safety and Health Coordinator Workshop 2024 concluded with certificates of participation being awarded to attendees. The organizers expressed their appreciation to all participants and speakers for their active involvement and dedication to promoting workplace safety.

With its successful execution and positive reception, the OSH-C Workshop has set a benchmark for future programs, reinforcing the vital role of training and education in achieving Vision Zero — a world where workplace accidents and injuries are eliminated.

As participants returned to their workplaces, they carried with them not only newfound knowledge but also a sense of responsibility to lead the charge in creating safer, healthier environments for all.

Together, we work towards a safer tomorrow.