The construction sector in Indonesia plays a vital role in the country’s economy, employing millions of workers. This sector is also contributing significantly to the country’s GDP. However, ensuring the safety of workers, the public, and the environment remains a critical challenge. The government has recognized this and taken significant steps to improve Indonesia Construction Safety Standards through a series of laws and regulations. These new safety protocols aim to reduce accidents and improve overall safety for the workers. Let’s take a look!
Key Regulatory Changes in Indonesia Construction Safety Standards
In recent years, Indonesia has made significant regulatory improvements to strengthen construction safety. The foundation of these reforms lies in Law Number 28 of 2002, concerning Buildings, which was enacted to ensure building safety and usability. This law was later amended by Law Number 11 of 2020, and commonly referred to as the Omnibus Law. The government further reinforced these regulations with the enactment of Government Regulation Number 16 of 2021 (GR 16/2021), which provides a more detailed framework for implementing building safety.
One of the key principles of these Indonesia Construction Safety Standards regulations is ensuring that buildings meet specific standards. They include safety, utility, and environmental compatibility standards. The focus on safety includes three primary aspects:
- The payload ability (ensuring that the structure can bear expected loads),
- The fire hazard prevention and control, and
- The protection against electrical and lightning-related risks.
It should be noted that failure to meet these safety standards can result in administrative or criminal sanctions.
Introduction of the Construction Safety Management System (SMKK)
A major regulatory improvement in Indonesia Construction Safety Standards came with the introduction of the Construction Safety Management System (SMKK) through Government Regulation No. 14 of 2021. This amends the earlier GR 22/2020 on Construction Services. The system mandates that all construction service users and providers implement safety protocols across all stages of construction projects.
The SMKK requires construction firms to perform hazard identification, risk assessment, and safety control measures. These activities ensure the safety of workers, service users, suppliers, and the public in and around construction sites. The system focuses on four key areas:
- Building and asset safety: Ensuring the security of construction materials and equipment.
- Occupational health and safety: Protecting the workforce, suppliers, and visitors.
- Public safety: Minimizing risks to nearby communities.
- Environmental safety: Protecting both the work environment and surrounding areas.
Improving Occupational Safety and Health (OHS) in Indonesia Construction Safety Standards
Despite its significant role in Indonesia’s economy, the construction industry has a poor record when it comes to occupational health and safety (OHS). Statistics show that about 30% of all workplace injuries in Indonesia occur in the construction sector. In response to this, the government has included strict OHS requirements as part of the SMKK framework in Indonesia Construction Safety Standards. These include provisions for ensuring the safety of workers and the public, making construction companies responsible for identifying and mitigating hazards at each stage of the project.
In addition, the government has focused on improving the safety of foreign workers through specific provisions under GR 14/2021, which also mandates technology transfer from qualified foreign workers to their Indonesian counterparts. This initiative ensures that local workers are equipped with modern construction safety techniques, contributing to the long-term improvement of safety standards in the sector.
Ensuring Compliance with Safety Standards
The Indonesian government has emphasized the importance of compliance with construction safety regulations. Companies are required to obtain a business identification number and a Construction Company Certificate (SBU) to operate legally. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to significant legal and financial penalties. Moreover, the SMKK’s strict requirements ensure that construction companies are held accountable for ensuring the safety of their projects, workers, and the surrounding communities.
The introduction of these new Indonesia Construction Safety Standards reflects the government’s commitment to improving safety standards in the construction industry. By implementing the SMKK and other safety protocols, Indonesia aims to reduce accidents, protect its workforce, and create a safer environment, as well as all stakeholders involved in construction projects.
