MediaToday Newspapers Latest Editions

maltatoday | SUNDAY • 28 SEPTEMBER 2025 THIS IS A PAID COLLABORATION Building safer futures for workers: Malta's construction sector enters a new era ON 7 September 2025, Malta's con- struction industry entered a new chapter, one that places even greater emphasis on workplace safety across construction sites. The Health and Safety at Work (Mini- mum Requirements for Work at Construc- tion Sites) Regulations, drafted by the Oc- cupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA), have officially come into force. These regulations replace those intro- duced in 2018 and form part of a broad- er initiative to raise standards across the construction sector. They embed safety obligations at every stage of a project's lifecycle — from design and planning through to final completion. This administrative reform marks a fun- damental cultural shift, moving the indus- try from a reactive stance to a preventive and professional framework. Its goal is to safeguard lives, strengthen accountabili- ty, and enhance public confidence in the sector. A Comprehensive Safety Net The regulations cover all construction activities, from excavation, assembly, con- versions, and renovations to dismantling, repairs, painting, drainage, and mainte- nance. Whether a large-scale commer- cial development or a small residential upgrade, every project is now subject to clearly defined safety obligations, regard- less of its size. Responsibility Where It Belongs One of the most significant reforms is the new level of responsibility placed on clients — the individuals commissioning construction projects or for whom the work is being carried out. Clients are now required to appoint a qualified Project Supervisor for Health and Safety, who will be responsible for risk management, site-specific safety plans, contractor coordination, and on- going compliance. This role may only be filled by professionals listed on OHSA's Competent Person Register. Domestic projects undertaken for non-business purposes, involving a single contractor and no particular risks (such as working at heights or handling hazardous substances), are exempt from the obliga- tion to appoint a Project Supervisor or notify OHSA. Clients who are unable to directly over- see their projects may designate a Client Representative to ensure that their re- sponsibilities are properly fulfilled. Professionalising Safety: The Role of Project Supervisors Project Supervisors carry wide-ranging responsibilities. They are tasked with pre- paring detailed Health and Safety Plans before works commence and maintain- ing Health and Safety Files for future ref- erence and compliance. They coordinate training, establish safety protocols, and promote cooperation between all con- tractors and self-employed workers in- volved in a project. Project Supervisors verify and evaluate risk assessments to ensure that all poten- tial hazards are properly addressed and mitigated. As works progress, they con- duct regular inspections, halt unsafe prac- tices when necessary, and issue written reports. Furthermore, they ensure that only authorised and adequately trained workers are present on site. Project Su- pervisors are also responsible to investi- gate thoroughly and without delay, any complaints or concerns from workers and third parties, as well as any accidents. No work may commence unless a Pro- ject Supervisor has been formally ap- pointed and notified to OHSA. Should any changes occur regarding the appointed Project Supervisor, for instance, in the event of resignation, all site activity must be suspended immediately until OHSA is notified and a new appointment is ap- proved. Enhanced Oversight for High-Risk Projects Projects above certain thresholds - last- ing over 30 working days with more than 20 workers on site simultaneously or ex- ceeding 500 total person-days - must be notified to OHSA at least four weeks be- fore works start, through a Construction Notification Form found on the OHSA website. This system allows OHSA to closely monitor higher risk works from the outset and intervene early where necessary. The notification received from OHSA must re- main visible on site throughout the pro- ject lifecycle. Empowering Workers as Safety Part- ners The regulations also clarify the duties of workers themselves. Indeed, they must cooperate with Project Supervisors, fol- low all safety instructions, and report any hazards. This approach encourages shared responsibility, recognising that safety is a collective effort. Safer Sites, Stronger Industry The expected benefits for businesses are substantial: fewer accidents, reduced delays, lower insurance costs, enhanced reputations, and stronger client trust. At a national level, safer sites protect work- ers' livelihoods, reduce the burden on healthcare systems, and enhance public confidence in a sector vital to Malta's eco- nomic growth. A Long-Term Commitment These regulations are not merely about compliance; they represent a commit- ment to building a safer and more sus- tainable construction sector for the long term. They reflect Malta's proactive ap- proach and determination to protect its workforce, set higher standards, improve industry culture, and strengthen the country's reputation on the global stage. Further Information All necessary notification forms are available and submitted electronically through OHSA's website. For more details on the new regulations or on the e-forms, visit ohsa.mt, call the OHSA helpline on 138, or email ohsa@ohsa.mt Works will take longer than 30 days and involve more than 20 workers, or exceed 500 person days. May include large apartment blocks, commercial buildings or public infrastructure. Irid jiġi appuntat project supervisor. Domestic Projects Large Projects Other Projects Minor works in a private house, apartment or any type of residence. Works not being done for business purposes. One contractor will be engaged. No specific risks according to legislation. A project supervisor needs to be appointed. A Construction Notification Form is to be sent to OHSA. No need to appoint a project supervisor. All other works (including small apartment blocks or offices and businesses). They involve more than one contractor. There are specific risks according to legislation Types of Projects A project supervisor needs to be appointed. Occupational Health & Safety Authority "Every worker has the right to return home safe. These new regulations make that non-negotiable." — Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA) Sweeping new regulations, designed to raise industry standards, put safety, professionalism, and accountability at the core of construction work. "Safety cannot be left to chance — it must be at the heart of every project from the start."

• Cover