Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1533342
The Occupational Health and Safe- ty Authority (OHSA) has introduced a significant regulatory framework aimed at reinforcing workplace safe- ty through the establishment of the Competent Person Register. This in- itiative, anchored in Chapter 646 of the Laws of Malta, establishes a Com- petent Person Register, ensuring that only qualified professionals oversee and implement crucial occupational health and safety (OHS) measures on construction sites. Addressing Critical Risks in Construction Construction sites are inherently high- risk environments, demanding strin- gent safety protocols to prevent ac- cidents and injuries. The Competent Person Register directly targets these challenges by accrediting individuals with the necessary expertise to iden- tify and mitigate hazards. This frame- work ensures that those responsible for site safety possess a deep under- standing of construction-specific risks, including working at heights, heavy machinery operation, and hazardous material handling. "This register is not merely a bureau- cratic measure but a proactive step to instil a culture of safety on construc- tion sites, where the potential for seri- ous accidents is significant. By ensur- ing that competent individuals are in charge, we aim to drastically reduce workplace injuries," said Dr Josianne Cutajar, OHSA's Chief Executive Officer. A New Regulatory Framework for Workplace Safety The Competent Person Register is a formal system that endorses individu- als who possess the necessary qualifi- cations and experience to advise and implement occupational health and safety measures. The administrative instrument provides clarity on the re- quirements for registration, including academic qualifications, practical ex- perience, and compliance with ethical standards. This rigorous process ensures that only professionals with proven exper- tise are entrusted with safeguarding worker well-being. By setting clear cri- teria, OHSA is driving a paradigm shift towards a more preventive and proac- tive approach to OHS in construction. OHSA, as the regulatory body, offers this register as a resource for employ- ers and other duty holders. The intent is to create a transparent, accountable system where businesses can confi- dently engage qualified professionals to ensure legal compliance and safe- guard worker well-being. Ensuring Transparency and Accountability This Register, which OHSA will update on its website, will ensure that duty holders have access to a vetted pool of qualified health and safety practi- tioners, will strengthen transparen- cy and accountability, and enhance workplace safety. In cases where applicants or regis- trants wish to contest decisions made by OHSA regarding registration or re- newal, they have the right to appeal before the Health and Safety Tribunal. Further Information and Application Process. For those interested in applying, further details on eligibility, registration, and applicable fees can be found on OHSA's official website. Applications are open and will close on 4 June 2025. For further information visit OHSA's website www.ohsa.mt or contact Help- line 138. Registered Competent Persons: Higher Safety Standards in the Construction Sector in Malta 5 NEWS maltatoday | SUNDAY • 16 MARCH 2025 JAMES DEBONO jdebono@mediatoday.com.mt THIS IS A PAID COLLABORATION Environment Ministry set to ban balloon releases to curb litter THE Environment Ministry has launched a public consultation on proposed regulations that would ban the release of plastic confetti and balloons at open-air events. The proposal forms part of its strategy to combat marine litter, which can be deadly to wildlife. The new measures, published on Friday, form part of the Sin- gle-Use Plastic Products Strategy for Malta (2021-2030) and are open for public feedback until 11 April 2025. The new rules will prohibit the release of plastic confetti and bal- loons in open-air spaces, defined as any open space or covered area with at least one open side. However, biodegradable confet- ti and confetti made from natural materials such as rice or leaves will still be permitted. The use of plastic confetti will remain allowed for indoor events, but only for a limited period be- fore a complete ban on its use, distribution, and consumption comes into effect six months lat- er. Balloon releases will generally be banned, whether biodegradable or not, but an exception will be made if the balloons are weighted enough to prevent them from es- caping into the environment. This exception aims to preserve traditional balloon releases, par- ticularly those carried out by local band clubs during village feasts, provided they adhere to the re- quirements. Balloons can be weighted using small objects attached to their strings to prevent them from drifting away. Common balloon weights include metal discs, sand- bags, and ribbons. Offenders will face fines in line with existing penalties for simi- lar infringements, which include a fine of €1,500 for the first con- viction and €2,500 for a second or subsequent conviction. The proposed restrictions on placing plastic confetti on the market will take effect two months after the legal notice is published. Plastic confetti and balloon re- leases contribute significantly to environmental pollution. Studies have shown that confetti, often made of microplastics, can con- taminate soil and water bodies, posing risks to wildlife. Marine animals and birds frequently mis- take plastic fragments for food, leading to ingestion and potential fatalities. Balloons released into the air often end up in the sea or natural habitats, where they break down into smaller plastic pieces or en- tangle wildlife. Latex balloons, often marketed as biodegradable, can remain intact in saltwater for over a year, prolonging the risk to marine life. In 2019, 39 local councils in Mal- ta committed to discontinuing the use of balloons and plastic confetti during public events. Single-use plastic confetti to be banned six months after legislation comes into force