This Industry Guidance Note (“IGN”) serves as a reference on the legal requirements and processes pertaining to Combined Operation (“CO”) activities, in accordance with the Workplace Safety and Health (Facilities) (Control of Major Accident Hazards) Regulations (“COMAH Regulations”). The primary objective of this IGN is to ensure that Duty Holder(s) (“DHs”) adopt a consistent approach when preparing and submitting their Combined Operation Safety Case (“COSC”) to the Safety, Health and Environment National Authority (“SHENA”), the designated Competent Authority under the applicable law and regulations. A COSC is a joint Safety Case that must be submitted by the DHs of two (2) or more operated facilities engaged in a CO. Further details and interpretation regarding the term “Combined Operation” can be found in Section 5.1 of this IGN.

The Safety, Health and Environment National Authority (SHENA) reminds all employers, self-employed persons and principals at every workplace of their legal obligations under the Workplace Safety and Health Act, Cap 277 (WSHA), and the Workplace Safety and Health (Risk Management) Regulations to ensure the workplace hazards are properly identified, risks are assessed, and appropriate mitigation measures are implemented.

Electrical safety in a factory refers the identification, assessment and control of potential hazards associated with power systems that could cause injury to personnel, damage to equipment, or operational downtime. Such hazards may include equipment malfunctions, faulty wiring issues, or improper grounding.

When electrical equipment is used in, around, or near an atmosphere that has flammable gases or vapours, flammable liquids, combustible dusts, ignitable fibres or flying’s, there is a potential risk of fire or explosion. Areas in which such explosive atmospheres may occur are referred to as hazardous (or classified) locations or areas. Hazardous area classifications involve categorizing different zones based on the level of risk present.

The SHENA Annual Report for FY 2024–2025 provides an overview of the Authority’s workstreams, key activities, achievements, and overall performance as the national regulator. It highlights SHENA’s efforts in ensuring compliance in workplace safety, health and environment, as well as radiation matters, while also outlining its strategic initiatives, organisational framework, and key milestones during the reporting period.

When electrical equipment is used in, around, or near an atmosphere that has flammable gases or vapours, flammable liquids, combustible dusts, ignitable fibres or flying’s, there is a potential risk of fire or explosion. Areas in which such explosive atmospheres may occur are referred to as hazardous (or classified) locations or areas. Hazardous area classifications involve categorizing different zones based on the level of risk present.