Electrical hazards remain one of the most common dangers in workplaces, particularly on construction sites, said Deputy Permanent Secretary (Energy) at the Prime Minister’s Office Pengiran Haji Jamra Weira bin Pengiran Haji Petra. Identifying these hazards can help raise awareness of their risks and consequences, he emphasised.
He said this as the guest of honour during a socialisation event organised by the Electrical Safety Committee (ESCOM) yesterday.
“The construction industry is a cornerstone of our nation’s development, and ensuring the safety and reliability of construction power is paramount,” he said, highlighting that exposure to electricity can harm employees and, in the worst cases, result in fatalities. He expressed concern that workplace fatalities and injuries occur almost every year, primarily due to unsafe practices and electrical installations.
The deputy permanent secretary also introduced newly crafted guidelines addressing the unique challenges of the industry. These comprehensive best practices aim to set a benchmark for excellence in electrical safety. He hopes these documents will serve as practical guidance for all relevant stakeholders, ensuring safe electrical installations across the nation.
He further encouraged the committee to continue taking a strategic and collective approach to address current and future challenges while ensuring compliance with the Workplace Safety and Health Order, 2009 and its regulations. “In line with Brunei Vision 2035, I reiterate the importance of safe electricity use with the goal of reducing work-related fatalities to zero. This requires a whole-of-nation approach to ensure Brunei Darussalam is a safe place to work and live.”
Meanwhile, ESCOM Co-chairman and Acting Director of Compliance and International Affairs Division at Safety, Health and Environment National Authority (SHENA) Haji Noryasmin bin Haji Mohd Noor, in his closing remarks, noted that the three documents presented are a testament to their commitment to fostering safer construction sites across Brunei. These documents serve as essential references for ensuring electrical safety best practices are implemented in construction activities, safeguarding the well-being of all workers.
The first document, Guidelines and Best Practices for Construction Power Part 1: Temporary Construction Power, provides comprehensive safety guidelines for temporary power setups on construction sites. The second, Guidelines and Best Practices for Construction Power Part 2: Standalone Mobile Generator > 10kVA to 1250kVA, outlines detailed instructions for the safe operation of standalone mobile generators.
The third, Guidelines and Best Practices for Construction Power Part 3: Electrical Safety at Construction Sites, focuses on essential safety protocols to prevent electrical hazards and ensure the safety of workers.
Haji Noryasmin also reflected on a recent workplace fatality due to electrocution, underscoring the inherent risks faced by many workers daily. He stressed that safety is not just a slogan but a commitment that must be upheld to prevent further accidents. – Lyna Mohamad
