When was the OHSAS 18001 transition deadline?

The transition period ended in March 2021. All organisations still using OHSAS 18001 need to migrate to ISO 45001:2018 to maintain their certification.

Is ISO 45001 mandatory for the construction sector?

Not legally mandatory, but most major government and private projects require ISO 45001 or equivalent certification for contractors and sub-contractors.

How does ISO 45001 differ from regular DOSH compliance?

DOSH sets minimum legal requirements. ISO 45001 is a comprehensive management framework that goes beyond minimum compliance — it helps you create a continuous safety culture.

Workplace Safety & DOSH Compliance

ISO 45001:2018
Occupational Safety & Health Management System

Occupational Safety & Health Management System (OSHMS)

Benefits Contact Us

What is ISO 45001?

ISO 45001:2018 is the international standard for Occupational Safety and Health Management Systems (OSHMS). It replaces OHSAS 18001 and provides a framework for preventing work-related injuries and illnesses.

In Malaysia, the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) enforces the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994. ISO 45001 helps organisations comply with DOSH requirements systematically.

This certification is especially important for high-risk sectors such as construction, manufacturing, oil & gas, and mining.

Benefits of ISO 45001 Certification

Reduced workplace accidents and injuries

Compliance with OSHA 1994 and DOSH regulations

Reduced sick leave and worker absenteeism

Lower worker insurance premiums

Improved productivity and worker morale

Safety culture at all organisational levels

Eligibility for construction and heavy industry tenders

Reduced risk of legal action

Workplace Safety Framework

ISO 45001 uses a proactive approach to identify hazards and reduce risks before accidents occur

Case Studies & Real-World Scenarios

Construction

Construction Site in Putrajaya

A G7 contractor reduced accident rates from 12 incidents to 2 per year after ISO 45001 implementation. DOSH recognised it as a model construction site.

Manufacturing

Automotive Manufacturing Plant

A factory in Pekan, Pahang achieved 365 days without accidents after ISO 45001. Insurance premiums dropped 15% and productivity increased 10% due to fewer work disruptions.

Agriculture

Palm Oil Plantation

A plantation company implemented ISO 45001 for plantation and factory workers. Chemical poisoning cases reduced by 90% with stricter handling SOPs and adequate PPE.

Comparison: OHSAS 18001 vs ISO 45001

Aspect	OHSAS 18001 (Old)	ISO 45001:2018 (New)
Structure	Standalone structure	High-Level Structure (HLS) — easy integration
Approach	Reactive (after incidents)	Proactive (risk prevention)
Leadership	Management representative responsibility	Top management must be directly involved
Workers	Limited involvement	Worker consultation and participation mandatory
Risk	Hazards only	Risks and opportunities (risk-based thinking)
Context	Not included	Must understand organisational context