Safety Performance in Malaysia’s Manufacturing Industry: Unveiling Safety Challenges and Initiatives

Abstract

Introduction: Despite the rapid growth of the manufacturing industry, data from relevant agencies indicate the rising number of accidents that highlights the recurrence and criticality of safety issues that have remained unresolved over the years. This study aims to identify the key challenges faced by manufacturing companies in ensuring workplace safety, as well as the specific initiatives undertaken at the organizational level to mitigate occupational risks.

Methods: This qualitative research was adopted a case study approach, whereby the data were collected through semi-structured interviews involving 12 informants from seven manufacturing companies located in Selangor, Malaysia. The participants included safety practitioners directly involved in workplace safety functions. In addition to interviews, this study also incorporated document analysis to triangulate and validate the findings.

Results: Two main themes were identified in this study: safety challenges and safety initiatives. The safety challenges identified in this study are related to work processes, the working environment, and individual factors. The companies have introduced several safety initiatives, which include improving work processes and increasing management involvement in safety practices.

Conclusion: Safety challenges can hinder an organization’s ability to maintain effective safety performance. However, with preventive planning and the implementation of appropriate safety initiatives, these challenges can be addressed, thereby supporting the continuous improvement and sustainability of safety performance within the organization.