Over the last several years, the Consumers Association of Penang has observed the steady and regular occurrence of accidents and deaths at quarries mainly in Perak. Most recently, CAP was saddened to learn of the deaths of two workers over the last two days at a limestone quarry as a result of a rockfall at a worksite in Simpang Pulai.

Perak is noted for its mining and quarrying activities. Despite the occurrence of high mortality and morbidity rates associated with this work category, the state authorities have done little to intervene in terms of penalising the operators for their lack of safety measures at quarry work sites.

The statistics collected by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (Niosh) over the period 2000 - 2004 reveal a consistent number of accidents averaging 563 annually. Accidents in the mining and quarry sector resulting in disability and impairment over the same period averaged 84 annually. Accidents resulting in deaths averaged nine annually.

The mining and quarry sector is listed as a dangerous jobs category. Workers employed in this sector expect and accept accidents and death as a risk factor. Workers tend to be close-mouthed about these occurrences so as not to risk unemployment.

Our investigations revealed a lack of detailed investigations into worker-related deaths and disabilities at quarry work sites. The initial concern after each incident eventually dies down and workers resume operations with little improvement in the work culture at these work sites.

CAP notes that the quarry operator Imerys Honaik (M) Sdn Bhd had suspended quarry operations at its site following an accident and that the Mineral and Geoscience Department has been called in to investigate the incident. As an organisation with the welfare of consumers at its heart, CAP reiterates that the outcome of these investigations must be made public.

An average of 84 cases of disability and impairment annually is just too unacceptably high. That works out to about seven cases a month. Surely an employer averaging seven cases of disability amongst its employees must have a compensation scheme and rehabilitation plans and facilities to assist its employees?

CAP urges the Perak state authorities to carry out a full investigation into the area of worker deaths and accidents in the state's mining and quarry sector. The Department of Occupational Safety and Health must investigate whether operators provide a compensation package and rehabilitation plans for workers at quarries and mines.

Dosh must impose the appropriate penalties and hold the operators responsible for the safety and welfare of their workers. While this is a risky industry, this does not exonerate the operators from their responsibility of providing optimal safety measures for their workers.