🔊 What Is the Noise Regulation 2019 All About?
The Occupational Safety and Health (Noise Exposure) Regulations 2019 is a Malaysian regulation under the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (OSHA). It was introduced to replace the older Factories and Machinery (Noise Exposure) Regulations and reflects a more modern, risk-based approach to managing workplace noise. These regulations aim to protect workers from hearing loss and other health effects caused by excessive noise exposure in the workplace.
🔊 Key Requirements for Employers
Under the Noise Regulation 2019, employers must:
• Identify and assess noise risks in the workplace
• Conduct a Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) by a registered assessor
• Implement control measures to reduce exposure (engineering, administrative, PPE)
• Provide audiometric testing for exposed workers
• Train workers on noise hazards and hearing protection
• Maintain records of assessments, controls, and health surveillance
📌 Why It Matters
Even small businesses, from workshops to food processing plants, may have noisy equipment or processes that exceed safe limits. This regulation helps to:
• Prevent Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)
• Comply with DOSH requirements
• Improve worker health and productivity
• Prepare for audits and inspections