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Hearing problems top list of occupational diseases

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PUTRAJAYA: Hearing problems due to exposure to excessive noise at workplace are among the highest reported occupational diseases to the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH).

Deputy Human Resource Minister Datuk Mahfuz Omar said other health problems often faced by employees were ergonomic-related problems that caused back and wrist injuries.

“That’s why we emphasise that the employee or employer should explain to the doctors on how the problem could occur to identify the cause of the problem, either due to safety or health negligence at workplace.

“With the explanation, the doctors can report to the authorities for further action,” he told a press conference after the pre-celebration of World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2019 here yesterday.

Also present was DOSH director-general Omar Mat Piah.

Meanwhile, Omar said DOSH estimated that the number of occupational diseases in the country was high compared to the reports received by the department each year.

For 2016 and 2017, the number of reported occupational diseases was 7,820 and 6,020 respectively, much lower than the 40,000 reported cases of workplace accidents.

For the first two months of this year, Omar said 13,000 notices and 98 compound fines related to occupational safety and health were issued with 14 cases had been brought to the court. – Bernama

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