Dosh escalator check finds 44 breaches statewide
SIBU: The Department of Occupational Safety and Health ( Dosh) Sarawak inspected 555 escalators in the state during its Escalator Safety Usage Operations last year.
Its state director Mohd Hatta Zakaria revealed that 44 escalators were found to have breached various requirements during Dosh’s inspection.
“In 2016, five accidents and dangerous incidents associated with escalators were recorded. Last year, 15 notices of prohibition and 35 notices of improvement were issued,” he told The Borneo Post recently.
Touching on the penalty, Mohd Hatta cautioned that Dosh may take court action against those who fail to comply with any orders issued.
“If found guilty, the maximum penalty imposed under OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Act) is RM50,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or both.
“Under FMA ( Factories and Machinery Act) the maximum penalty is RM100,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or both,” he said.
However, he revealed that no case was brought to court last year.
He also pointed out that greater safety awareness on escalators must be inculcated and given priority at all times.
“Even though all necessary warning signs are placed on escalators to serve as a guideline for the public, it is also important for parents and guardians to exercise caution and supervise their children when using escalators,” he added.
He said last year, Dosh Sarawak conducted the Escalator Safety Campaign at Plaza Merdeka Mall and The Spring Shopping Mall in Kuching to increase public safety awareness regarding escalators.
“Users have responsibility to use the escalators in a courteous manner to prevent the occurrence of accidents and break downs.”