With the recent fatality involving a person using a backpack type of grass cutting machine in which steel blades were used the Safety, Health and Environment National Authority (SHENA) hereby informs all principals, occupiers, employers and individuals that such back pack grass cutting machines using fixed steel blades are not permitted for use in Brunei Darussalam with immediate effect and advises all users to opt for grass cutting machines with nylon rope connections. SHENA would also like to remind the public that appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) shall be used at all times by persons undertaking grass cutting activities.

All principals, employers, occupiers and individuals, in particular, persons engaged in grass cutting activity are reminded of their duties under the Workplace Safety and Health Order 2009 to ensure that the workplace and any machinery or equipment are safe and without risks to health to every person within the workplace.

In addition to this, under the Workplace Safety and Health (Risk Management) Regulations 2014, employers, self-employed persons and principals are required to undertake a risk assessment particular to their activity in relation to the safety and health risks posed to any person and shall take all reasonably practicable steps to eliminate any foreseeable risk to any person in the workplace, prior to commencing their work on site. The general risk assessment below may be used as a guide.

All principals, employers, occupiers and individuals, in particular, persons engaged in grass cutting activity are advised to ensure equipment is suitably maintained at all times and not modify the equipment in any way that may detract from its primary safe use and application. Equipment should be inspected prior to use to ensure all aspects remain in good order.

SHENA has commenced unannounced monitoring visits across all four districts and workplaces. It is envisaged that as part of these checks SHENA Inspectors will verify such activities at site as well.

Should there be any questions concerning these guidelines, please contact the SHENA Duty Officer at +673 7332200 or email info@shena.gov.bn

Published by Borneo Bulletin on Wednesday, 18 March 2020