THE Human Resources Ministry has urged employers and employees to adopt new-normal practices at the workplace.

Minister M. Saravanan, in a statement last night, said they must comply with all measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19 and other diseases when the conditional movement-control order (MCO) takes effect today.

“Some of these new-normal practices demand the implementation of procedures like temperature screenings for employees when they arrive at work and when they leave, as well as social distancing.

“Other measures include providing hand sanitiser and gloves, wearing masks at work and maintaining good personal hygiene.”

He said the ministry will conduct checks on business premises to ensure compliance with the standard operating procedure during the conditional MCO.

“Labour Department and Occupational Safety and Health Department officials are empowered to do this under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342).”

He said the government will not compromise with employers who fail to implement health and safety measures.

“Our fight against the Covid-19 pandemic is not over.

“All parties, including employers and workers, are required to give their full cooperation and commitment, for the benefit of the people and nation.”

Meanwhile, Deputy Finance Minister Abdul Rahim Bakri said Putrajaya’s decision on the conditional MCO is based on a “win-win situation”.

In a statement yesterday, he said there is a need to strike a balance between protecting the public’s interests and safeguarding the country’s.

“Such an important decision (to implement the conditional MCO) was made based on the consensus of the country’s highest (political) body, namely the cabinet, guided by the professional opinions of various agencies.

“In the case of Covid-19, decisions are usually guided by the Health Ministry, and also take into account input from international health bodies such as the World Health Organisation.”

On Friday, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin announced that almost all economic sectors will be allowed to resume operations this week.

However, only Perlis, Malacca and Terengganu are following the Federal Territories’ move to allow businesses to operate under relaxed restrictions beginning today. – Bernama, May 4, 2020.