Enhancing Industrial Safety: Analysing Key Failures and Recommendations for Improved Protocols and Ergonomic Practices

Abstract

This case study analyses critical safety and ergonomic failures in several industrial accidents, emphasizing the need for improved safety protocols and workplace design. The meat-mincing machine accident highlighted the lack of proper lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures, insufficient worker training, and poorly positioned emergency stop buttons, which delayed emergency responses and worsened the incident. Similarly, the warehouse hoist incident was caused by improper material handling, inadequate safety certifications, and poor ergonomic design, leading to musculoskeletal injuries. The MRT construction site accidents resulted from inadequate safety awareness, lack of equipment maintenance, and failure to adhere to safety regulations. The Pasir Gudang chemical spill demonstrated major deficiencies in waste management and emergency response, exacerbating environmental and public health risks. The study underscores the importance of a comprehensive safety culture, with recommendations including stricter enforcement of safety protocols, regular ergonomic assessments, and the adoption of real-time monitoring systems. Future research should focus on predictive maintenance technologies, the impact of industrial accidents on workers and the environment and overcoming barriers to implementing comprehensive safety measures. By fostering better safety practices, industries can reduce risks, protect workers, and prevent environmental disasters.