A 41-YEAR-old Malaysian verticality surveyor died after reportedly falling through a shaft opening from the eighth floor of a construction site in Bukit Mertajam on Thursday, in an incident now under investigation by the Penang Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH).
Penang DOSH Director Hairozie Asri said his department was alerted to the fatal accident at around 10.30 am, and a team of investigators was immediately dispatched to the scene.
“The victim, a local male surveyor employed by a subcontractor, was confirmed dead after falling through an opening estimated to be 27 metres in height. The incident occurred while he was carrying out surveying work at the lift lobby area of the building,” he said in a statement on Friday.
Initial findings indicate that the shaft area, located within a pressurisation zone, was only covered with plywood and enclosed with fencing, which was deemed insufficient to support weight or provide adequate protection for workers.
Following the incident, Penang DOSH issued three Prohibition Notices to the main contractor, halting all related activities until necessary safety measures are put in place.
Hairozie added that the main contractor has been instructed to conduct an internal investigation to identify the root cause of the accident and to propose remedial measures. A case presentation is also to be made to the state DOSH office.
“In the meantime, we will collect all relevant documentation and record statements from identified witnesses. A follow-up visit to the employer’s premises will be conducted once safety improvements are implemented,” he said.
Legal action may be taken under Section 15(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (Amendment) 2022, should any breaches of the Act be found. - June 6, 2025
