🔍 Introduction
In 2023, DOSH Malaysia released the Second Edition of the Guidance for Preparation and Updating of Report on Industrial Activity. If you’re in charge of safety or compliance for a high-risk facility, these changes affect how you submit and maintain your CIMAH Report.
Let’s break down the 8 most important updates every manufacturer needs to know.
📣 Key Changes in the 2023 CIMAH Guidance
1. New Timeframe Clarification
CIMAH Reports must be submitted 3 months before the introduction (including storage) of hazardous substances, not just operational start.
2. Definition of “Maximum Quantity Likely On Site”
Must be based on design capacity unless you can prove otherwise with inventory data, licenses, or purchase records.
3. Manufacturer Obligations
The Facility Owner is now clearly accountable for data accuracy, declaration sign-offs, and presenting to DOSH if requested.
4. Executive Summary — Now More Detailed
The executive summary must include:
- LSIR contours
- Number of affected people (on-site/off-site)
- Worst-case scenario data
- Recommendations from the OKMH
5. Mandatory Summary of Findings for Updates
All revised CIMAH Reports now require a side-by-side comparison of changes, based on a new DOSH template.
6. Identification of Ageing Equipment
Reports must now identify ageing plant/equipment and the integrity measures in place to manage them.
7. Knock-On Impact Considerations
You must assess whether secondary effects (e.g., LPG fire triggering a toxic release) could escalate a major accident.
8. Report Format & Accessibility
Reports should be maintained as living documents, easily updatable, and readable by various stakeholders — not just technical experts.
⚠️ Why This Matters
DOSH will presume the contents of your report to be true unless shown otherwise — so accuracy is crucial. Non-compliance can lead to:
- Site audits
- Enforcement actions
- Delays in operational approvals
✅ What You Should Do Now
- Download the 2023 Guidance Document from the DOSH website.
- Review your current report and identify gaps.
- Engage a CIMAH Competent Person (OKMH) as needed.
- Plan your next 3-year update based on new expectations.
🛟 Get Expert Help
Our team at PLC Group has been involved in CIMAH compliance serving over a 100 organisations. Let us guide you through the updated requirements and ensure your site stays safe — and compliant.
📞 Contact us for a free compliance health check.