Understanding the Roles of Safety Officer and OSH Coordinator 

Ensuring a safe and healthy workplace is a shared responsibility between employers, employees, and regulatory bodies. In Malaysia, two important roles support the implementation of occupational safety and health (OSH) at workplaces: the Safety and Health Officer (SHO), commonly known as the “Green Book holder”, and the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Coordinator.

Both roles aim to strengthen workplace safety culture, but they differ in qualification, responsibilities, and legal requirements. This article explains these roles clearly so employers can implement the right safety structure in their organizations.

1. What is a Safety and Health Officer (SHO) – “Green Book Holder”?

A Safety and Health Officer (SHO) is a competent person registered with DOSH who is responsible for managing and advising on occupational safety and health matters within an organization.

The term “Green Book” refers to the official registration book issued by DOSH to certified Safety and Health Officers.

Key Requirements

To become a registered SHO, a person must:

• Complete a DOSH-recognized Safety and Health Officer course

• Pass the SHO examination

• Obtain relevant working experience in OSH

• Be registered with DOSH Malaysia
  
  

Main Responsibilities

A registered SHO typically:

• Advise employers on legal OSH compliance

• Identify and assess workplace hazards

• Conduct risk assessments

• Investigate workplace accidents

• Organize safety training and awareness

• Submit reports to DOSH when required

2. What is an OSH Coordinator?

An OSH Coordinator is a person appointed by the employer to coordinate safety and health activities at the workplace, particularly in small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

This role was introduced to strengthen safety management in workplaces that are not legally required to appoint a full-time SHO.

Key Requirements

An OSH Coordinator typically must:

• Attend a DOSH-recognized OSH Coordinator training

• Possess basic knowledge of occupational safety and health

• Be appointed internally by the employer
  
  

Unlike a Safety Officer, an OSH Coordinator does not need to pass the SHO professional examination.

Main Responsibilities

The OSH Coordinator supports workplace safety by:

• Monitoring daily safety practices

• Assisting in hazard identification

• Ensuring safety procedures are followed

• Coordinating safety meetings and toolbox talks

• Assisting with accident reporting and documentation

Why These Roles Are Important

Both positions play a critical role in preventing workplace accidents and occupational diseases.

Safety and Health Officers provide professional safety management, especially in high-risk industries, while OSH Coordinators help smaller organizations maintain basic safety compliance and awareness.

Together, these roles help Malaysia move toward the national goal of:

• Reducing workplace accidents

• Improving safety culture

• Ensuring compliance with OSH legislation