Factories and Machinery Act 1967- ACT 139

Factories and Machinery Act 1967 (FMA Act 1967)

  • Act No. 64 of 1967

    • First enacted: 1967

    • Came into operation: 1 February 1970

    • Revised editions:

    • 1974 (Act 139, effective from 1 July 1974)

    • Further revisions in 1977, 2000, and 2006.

    • Incorporates the latest amendments (Act A1268) in 2006.

  • Sections of the Act:

    • PART I - PRELIMINARY

    • Short title, interpretation, appointment of officers, powers of inspectors, and confidentiality of information.

    • PART II - SAFETY, HEALTH, AND WELFARE

    • Regulations concerning safety and exposure to hazardous substances.

Key Provisions of the FMA Act

  • Short Title and Interpretation:
    The short title of the Act and definitions relevant to "factory" and general provisions.

  • Appointment and Powers of Officers:
    Officers appointed for supervision under this Act are recognized as public servants with enforcement powers.

  • Safety, Health, and Welfare Regulations:

    • Ensure that operations minimize exposure to harmful substances and manage health risks.

Specific Regulations Under FMA Act 1967

  • Safety, Health & Welfare Regulations 1970
    Aimed at protecting workers' health and safety.

  • Hazardous Materials:

    • Control over solid, liquid, gas, and fumes deemed toxic or harmful.

    • Reference to USECHH Regulations 2000 and CLASS Regulations 2013.

Ventilation Guidelines

  • Local Exhaust Ventilation Equipment: Must be designed and tested by a registered professional engineer:

    • Air Change Rates:

    • Minimum of 10 air changes per hour for processes generating little to no heat, smoke, or fume.

    • Minimum of 20 air changes per hour for processes generating heat, smoke, or fume.

  • Guidance References:

    • ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2016, ACGIH – Industrial Ventilation.

Welfare Provisions

  • Facilities Required:

    • Dressing room and restroom for women.

    • Availability of drinking water and washing facilities.

    • Provision for sanitary conveniences and first aid facilities.

  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

    • Safety helmet: Protects against head injuries from falling objects.

    • Safety shoes: Prevent foot injuries from heavy objects or sharp materials.

    • Safety belt: Used for fall protection in elevated work areas

    • Eye protection: Shields against flying debris and chemical splashes.

    • Ear protection: Reduces exposure to harmful noise levels.

    • Respirator: Protects against inhalation of hazardous substances.

    • Gloves: Safeguard hands from chemicals and physical injuries.