Reform of the Construction Sector Minister, Jonathan Attard, reiterated the Government’s commitment to strengthening a culture of prevention, responsibility and high standards in occupational health and safety across workplaces.He was speaking at a Business Breakfast organised by the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA) in collaboration with Times of Malta, themed “Beyond Compliance Towards Elevating Workplace Well-Being in Malta.”During his address, the Minister referred to recent reforms and investment within OHSA and announced the introduction of a new legally binding administrative instrument that establishes mandatory measures in situations of extreme weather. The measure was developed in response to recent severe weather events that affected Malta and underscored the need for a clearer and enforceable framework to safeguard workers, particularly those working outdoors.The instrument will come into effect when a red weather warning is issued by the competent authorities. It introduces mandatory preventive measures, including risk assessments and contingency plans, the suspension of outdoor works during hazardous conditions, and clear, structured procedures governing the safe return to work.The Minister explained that the instrument was subject to public consultation and finalised following discussions with social partners, including representatives of workers and employers. He noted that this is the second administrative instrument introduced by the Authority in recent months, following one addressing high temperatures.“This demonstrates how the new Occupational Health and Safety legislation is enabling more rapid and effective action in response to emerging challenges,” emphasised Minister Attard.He added that the next step must be cultural, stressing that organisations should not wait for inspections to take action but instead embed the physical, mental and social well-being of workers into their corporate governance structures.“The Government will continue to provide the framework, the resources and enforcement where necessary, but culture is built only through partnership,” stated Attard.Within the context of Malta Vision 2050, he underlined that health and safety must be a central pillar of sustainable development and quality of life for future generations.OHSA Chief Executive Officer Dr Josianne Cutajar delivered a detailed presentation outlining the Authority’s work, with particular emphasis on how investment in infrastructure, human resources and technical capacity has strengthened enforcement while fostering greater awareness, responsibility and higher standards.“Health and safety are not an administrative burden. They are a national priority and an investment in the life and dignity of all Maltese and Gozitan workers,” stated Dr Cutajar.The programme also featured a panel discussion with representatives of the social partners, including Ivan Refalo, President of the Malta Employers Association; Greta Rapa, Council Member of the Malta Chamber of SMEs; Marthese Portelli, Chief Executive Officer of The Malta Chamber; Kevin Camilleri, Deputy Secretary General of the General Workers’ Union; Josef Vella, Chief Executive Officer of UĦM; and George Steve Darmanin, President of MOSHPA. The discussion examined how the concept of “Beyond Compliance” can be implemented in practice through responsible leadership, collaboration and a stronger culture of prevention in workplaces.In his closing address, OHSA Board Chairman Pierre Fava highlighted the strong collaboration between the Board and the Authority’s administration, particularly in implementing the work plan. He expressed satisfaction with the dialogue generated during the conference and said the event should become an annual one, reaffirming that the Authority remains open to continued dialogue and ongoing strengthening.•