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BUKIT MERTAJAM – A worker died after falling with a scaffolding structure from the eighth floor of a building at a construction site here on Tuesday.
The incident occurred at about 6.15pm, with the victim believed to have been dismantling scaffolding on the floor at the time.
Penang Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) director Hairozie Asri said the incident occurred after a temporary structure, or catch platform, supporting the scaffolding collapsed.
"As a result, the victim fell to the ground along with the scaffolding structure.
"The victim suffered severe head injuries and was confirmed dead at the scene," he said in a statement on Friday.
Hairozie added that following the accident, his department conducted a preliminary investigation before ordering a halt to the related work activity.
"We have also issued a prohibition on interference at the site to ensure the location is preserved and not altered or disturbed until further investigations are complete.
"Investigations are being conducted under Section 17, Section 18A and Section 18B of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (Act 514), in addition to related occupational safety and health regulations.
"DOSH takes a serious view of fatal accidents, especially those involving work at height and the use of scaffolding," he said.
He also reminded employers to ensure every high-risk task is planned and carried out safely through effective risk assessment and control.
"This includes providing safe access and egress routes as well as protective systems to prevent workers from falling while carrying out duties at height," he said.
