Steam Boiler Registration Malaysia: DOSH Certificate of Fitness Requirements 2026

Disclaimer: This article provides general guidance based on the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (as amended 2022), P.U.(A) 99/2024, and official DOSH information as of January 2026. Regulations may be amended. Always verify current requirements with DOSH or qualified professionals before making compliance decisions.

Every steam boiler operating in Malaysia requires a valid Certificate of Fitness (CF) from DOSH before you can legally commission it. Operating without one exposes you to fines up to RM100,000, potential imprisonment, and forced shutdowns.

The regulatory landscape changed significantly on 1 June 2024 when the amended OSHA 1994 came into force, replacing the Factories and Machinery Act 1967 as the primary legislation governing boiler safety.

This guide covers:

• The new regulatory framework under P.U.(A) 99/2024
• Step-by-step CF application process for steam boilers
• Essential safety fittings DOSH inspectors will check
• Competent person and operator certification requirements
• Inspection fees and renewal timelines
• Common compliance mistakes that trigger enforcement action

What Is a Steam Boiler Certificate of Fitness?

The Certificate of Fitness (CF) is an official document issued by DOSH confirming your steam boiler is safe for operation. It replaces the old terminology you might still hear in industry: PMD (Perakuan Mesin Dandang) or PMA (Perakuan Memperbolehkan Alat).

Under Section 27D of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994, no person shall operate or permit the operation of any plant requiring a certificate of fitness until a DOSH officer or licensed person has issued a valid CF.

The CF certifies that your boiler:

• Meets design standards approved by DOSH
• Has passed required hydrostatic and operational tests
• Is equipped with all mandatory safety fittings
• Is operated by competent, certified personnel
• Is properly maintained according to regulations

Who Needs to Register Steam Boilers?

Any person or business operating a steam boiler in Malaysia must obtain a CF. The definition under the regulations is broad: a steam boiler means any closed vessel in which steam is generated under pressure greater than atmospheric pressure.

Exemptions

Certain low-risk equipment is exempt from CF requirements:

If you're uncertain whether your equipment requires registration, consult DOSH directly. Operating without a CF when one is required carries severe penalties.

The Regulatory Framework: What Changed in 2024

The regulatory landscape for steam boilers underwent significant changes on 1 June 2024. Understanding this framework is essential for compliance.

Key Legislation

Key Changes Under the New Framework

The transition from FMA 1967 to the amended OSHA 1994 brought several changes:

The extended scope means businesses previously not covered under FMA 1967, such as some service industries, now fall under OSHA requirements if they operate steam boilers.

Foundation Conclusion

Steam boiler compliance in Malaysia requires ongoing attention to certification, maintenance, and competent operation. The regulatory changes in 2024 increased both the scope of coverage and penalties for non-compliance, making systematic compliance management essential.

Equipment breakdown is a leading cause of unplanned shutdowns in Malaysian manufacturing. A single boiler failure can halt production for weeks while repairs are completed, and operating without valid certification adds regulatory penalties to the financial impact. Machinery Breakdown Insurance provides financial protection against these events, covering repair costs and business interruption while ensuring you can meet your obligations to employees and customers.

Speak to our industrial risk specialists about protecting your boiler assets