​OSH (Amendment) 2022: A Timely Reminder on 3 Critical Changes for Employers

In the first six months of this year, over 5,000 workplace accidents and incidents have been reported, a significant increase from just over 3,000 in the previous year. While this number is a stark reminder of the safety challenges we face, it also suggests a potential positive shift: employees and organizations may be getting better at reporting. This demonstrates the critical link between a strong safety culture and accurate data.
To sustain this positive trend and build a proactive safety system, it is vital to remember the key changes from the OSH (Amendment) 2022, which came into operation on June 1, 2024. Here are three critical changes every employer must focus on right now.
1. The New Duty to Conduct a Risk Assessment
The amendments explicitly require employers and principals to conduct a comprehensive risk assessment for all safety and health risks at the workplace. If the assessment identifies a risk, the employer must put control measures in place. This is no longer optional; it's a fundamental part of your compliance process, and it’s an ideal time to apply the 4M+1E framework to ensure a thorough review of your operations.
2. The Expanded Liability and Increased Penalties
The penalties for non-compliance have been significantly increased. For example, the maximum fine for a breach of general duties has risen from RM50,000 to a maximum of RM500,000. Furthermore, liability has been extended to corporate officers, including directors and managers. This change means that a proactive compliance system is not just good practice—it's a critical financial safeguard for both the company and its leadership.
3. The Expanded Duty of Care to Contractors
The new legislation extends the duty of care to contractors, subcontractors, and their employees. As an employer or "principal," you are now more responsible for ensuring the safety and health of all who work under your direction. This requires you to integrate contractors into your safety management system, ensuring they follow your protocols and are aware of all workplace risks.
The Next Step: From Amendments to Action
Understanding these changes is a critical first step. But true compliance—the kind that protects your people and your business—is not just about knowing the rules. It's about having a systematic, process-based approach to safety that embeds these changes into your daily operations.
Ready to build a robust safety system that integrates these amendments seamlessly? Read our comprehensive guide on "Beyond the Checkbox: How to Build a Proactive Compliance System" to take the next step in your compliance journey.