Demonstration of Safe Operation (DOSO) in Malaysia
Demonstration of Safe Operation (DOSO)
If your facility handles hazardous substances above 10% but below the threshold quantities specified under the CIMAH Regulations, you are required to demonstrate that your operations are safe and that major accident hazards are adequately controlled. Our Demonstration of Safe Operation (DOSO) assessment services help manufacturers meet this legal obligation systematically, thoroughly, and in full compliance with the Occupational Safety and Health (Control of Industrial Major Accident Hazards) Regulations 1996.
What Is a Demonstration of Safe Operation (DOSO)?
A Demonstration of Safe Operation (DOSO) is a structured safety assessment required under the CIMAH Regulations 1996 for non-major hazard installations — specifically, facilities where the quantity of hazardous substances present is less than the specified threshold quantity but more than 10% of that threshold quantity.
While DOSO sits below the full CIMAH major hazard installation threshold, it carries significant legal obligations. The content of the DOSO safety report must be prepared in accordance with the requirements of Schedule 6 of the CIMAH Regulations 1996.
While DOSO sits below the full CIMAH major hazard installation threshold, it carries significant legal obligations. A manufacturer who falls under DOSO must be able to demonstrate at any time that they have:
- Identified all possible major accident hazards associated with their industrial activity
- Taken adequate steps to:
- Prevent any major accident or minimise its consequences to persons and the environment
- Provide workers on site with the information, training, and equipment necessary to ensure their safety
- Prepared and maintained an adequate on-site emergency plan detailing how major accidents will be dealt with
Difference Between DOSO vs CIMAH
It is important to understand where DOSO sits within the broader CIMAH regulatory framework:
| DOSO | CIMAH | |
|---|---|---|
| Applies to | Non-major hazard installations | Major hazard installations |
| Hazardous substance quantity | Between 10% and 100% of threshold quantity | At or above threshold quantity |
| Key requirement | Demonstrate safe operation and maintain emergency plan | Full safety report, on-site emergency plan, off-site emergency plan |
| Regulatory basis | CIMAH Regulations 1996 | CIMAH Regulations 1996 |
If your facility's hazardous substance inventory has grown and now meets or exceeds the full CIMAH threshold, you may need to transition to a full CIMAH assessment. Our team can advise on your current classification and obligations.
What Does a DOSO Assessment Cover?
A DOSO assessment and safety report prepared in accordance with Schedule 6 of the CIMAH Regulations 1996 typically covers:
- Facility and process description — Overview of the industrial activity, site layout, and hazardous substances present
- Hazard identification — Systematic identification of all possible major accident hazard scenarios associated with the facility and its operations
- Risk assessment — Evaluation of the likelihood and consequences of identified major accident scenarios for personnel and the environment
- Prevention and mitigation measures — Review and documentation of engineering controls, safety systems, and management measures in place to prevent accidents or limit their consequences
- Worker safety provisions — Confirmation that workers are provided with adequate information, training, and equipment for their safety
- On-site emergency plan — Preparation or review of an adequate emergency response plan detailing how major accidents will be identified, reported, and managed
- Schedule 6 safety report — Compilation of all of the above into a formal DOSO safety report meeting the requirements of Schedule 6, CIMAH Regulations 1996
Why Choose Us
Our team has in-depth knowledge of the CIMAH Regulations 1996 and DOSH requirements for DOSO assessments, ensuring your safety report is comprehensive, correctly structured, and fully compliant with Schedule 6 requirements.
From initial classification and hazard identification through to safety report preparation, emergency plan development, and periodic review, we provide continuity of support across the full DOSO compliance lifecycle.
Timely reports with clear interpretation, delivered on schedule so your projects stay on track.
Our specialists include chemists, environmental scientists, EHS professionals and engineers with real-world industry experience.
We provide more than just data. We interpret findings to help improve safety, compliance and operational efficiency.
Our Offices Across Malaysia
Selangor (Headquarters)
No. 18 & 20, Jalan JED 4, Bandar Parklands, 41200 Klang, Selangor Darul Ehsan
Tel: +603-3325 9781/+603-3318 9214
Fax: +603-3325 9782
Johor
No. 01-12, Jalan Molek 1/31, Taman Molek, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor
Tel: +607-361 0718
Fax: +607-353 5012
Penang
Penthouse 1-21-01, Suntech @ Penang Cybercity, Lintang Mayang Pasir 3, 11950 Bayan Baru, Penang
Tel: +604-619 2563
Request a Quote or Consultation
If your facility handles hazardous substances at quantities that may fall under DOSO obligations, or if you are unsure of your current regulatory classification under the CIMAH Regulations, our team is ready to help. Contact us today to discuss your DOSO requirements or to arrange an initial screening consultation.
