Adoption of Inherently Healthier Design in Malaysia – Where Are We Now?

Abstract

Inherently healthier design is a new concept focusing on developing a process which
in fundamentally healthier through the selection of less toxic and volatile chemicals, milder
operating conditions and better working procedures that may reduce workplace exposures. Since
the idea is relatively new compared to inherent safety, it is interesting to know the level of
understanding of the concept as well as the level of adoption of the design new features in
Malaysia. A national level survey was carried out to determine the level of knowledge and
adoption of inherent occupational health (IOH) concept in Malaysia. It was found that among the
three sectors, the industrialists have the lowest awareness of the IOH concept; as compared to
academics who have highest awareness level. Among the common reasons given by the
respondents for their lack of knowledge related to the IOH are weak regulation’s enforcement
related to health aspect, low safety and health mentality and culture in developing countries, and
poor recording of workplace related diseases in Malaysia.