KUALA LUMPUR: The capacity of workers at construction sites is limited to 60 per cent while operating hours are subject to directives from local authorities, said Senior Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.

Fadillah, in a statement today said that all construction work can continue but the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) must be fully adhered to or face closure order of construction sites or compound fines.

"I have instructed the Construction Industry Development Board, (CIDB) to further enhance the monitoring and enforcement of SOPs at construction sites as well as the placement of construction workers.

"CIDB has the power to close and also issue compounds on construction sites that are found not to comply with SOPs or commit any offence under Act 520 (the Construction Industry Development Board Act) and Act 446 (the Workers' Minimum Standards of Housing and Amenities Act 1990)," he said.

He said that CIDB also has the power to impose disciplinary action on contractors found guilty which will result in their registration being suspended or revoked.
Fadillah said contractors should appoint Safety and Health officers to monitor compliance with SOPs at construction sites, in addition to monitoring other safety and health guidelines.

The National Security Council statistics show that from April 12 to 30, a total of 709 COVID-19 cases were detected at construction sites from 25 clusters, while from May 1 to 19, the number of cases increased to 880 cases from 52 clusters.

CIDB had also conducted inspections on 2,532 construction sites from Jan 13 to May 23, of which 2,502 of them did not adhered to the SOPs.

Two construction sites were found not complying with the SOPs and were ordered to close.

Construction industry players can refer to the latest SOPs at www.cidb.gov.my. and further information on the operation of the construction sector during the Movement Control Order period can be obtained by contacting the CIDB Careline at 03-5567 3300 (operating hours from Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5.30 pm).

-- BERNAMA