MSOC - Workplace Safety and Health Council

1. Current Requirements for the Metal
Working Industry
Workers in the metalworking industry are required to attend and pass the Metalworking Safety
Orientation Course (MSOC) to ensure that they attain key knowledge on working safely. Employers
are also expected to have their workers re-certified in MSOC every three years.
2. Background
With the Workplace Safety and Health Council’s review of safety training requirements,
improvements were first introduced for construction and shipyard workers in July 2007 based on
three key principles:
• Ensure workers are equipped with WSH knowledge and well-being issues early;
• Recognise experienced workers’ ability to manage safety better; and
• Provide employers greater flexibility when re-certifying workers.
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) incorporated the changes to the issuance and renewal of work
permit to support the improvements to the training requirements.
3. Improvements Extended to
Metalworking Industry
From 1 October 2009, the improvements will be extended to the metalworking industry. MOM
will also align the changes made to the issuance and renewal of work permits for metalworking
workers. The following page details the training requirements.