Niosh offers free indoor air quality basic assessment services for SMEs

Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong (file pic)

KUCHING, March 17: As ventilation is a critical component of preventing the spread of Covid-19, the Ministry of Human Resources (MoHR) has taken the initiative to provide free Indoor Air Quality (KUD) Basic Assessment services to micro and small businesses through the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (Niosh).

According to a MoHR statement released today, Niosh chairman Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong stated that this free initiative, which is part of the Malaysian Family Aspirations (AKM) programme, will involve over 300 micro and small businesses where a Niosh Technical Specialist will conduct an initial workplace inspection.

“Preliminary inspection reports and basic monitoring of KUD will be prepared, along with recommendations for KUD improvement and occupational safety and health (OSH) at work,” he said.

Ugak explained that the country’s economic performance, particularly in the small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) sector, has been negatively impacted by Covid-19, and as a result, the welfare of this sector requires special attention.

“Due to the fact that the Omicron variant can infect more quickly than other variants, all business entities must take proactive measures to address this issue at an early stage.

“The Ministry of Health Malaysia (KKM) and the National Security Council (MKN) have also provided clarification on KUD with the spread of Omicron with indoor ventilation systems,” he added.

SMEs are urged to contact Niosh for assistance with basic indoor air quality assessments. Any inquiries should be directed to Niosh at cmc@niosh.com.my. — DayakDaily