No need for environmental impact assessments to use leaf blowers, says deputy housing minister

KUALA LUMPUR, March 3 — Frequent use of leaf blowers in public cleansing does not require scientific studies, including Social or Environmental Impact Assessments (SIA/EIA) to assess the impact of airborne dust such as PM2.5 and PM10 on urban residents, said Deputy Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu.

PM2.5 and PM10 are airborne particles measuring 2.5 micrometres or less and 10 micrometres or less, respectively, that can be inhaled and may cause respiratory issues.

“However, the ministry always follows guidance and findings from the Ministry of Health and the Department of Environment on the health impacts of airborne particles, especially for vulnerable groups,” she said during the oral question-and-answer session in the Dewan Negara today.

She was responding to a supplementary question from Senator Datuk Sivaraj Chandran on whether the ministry has conducted scientific studies on the health effects of airborne dust from frequent blower use on urban residents, particularly children and the elderly, and on the main findings.

Aiman Athirah said prolonged exposure to PM2.5 and PM10 can generally affect the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, so the ministry takes this into account in its operations and enforces compliance with established manuals.

Answering Sivaraj’s original question on the government’s official policy regarding the use of such machines by local authorities and cleaning contractors, Aiman Athirah said mechanical equipment is allowed in public cleaning services.

“The details are set out in the government-approved Operational Manual for Solid Waste Collection and Public Cleansing Services and are included in concession agreements in seven states under the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Act 2007 (Act 672),” she said.

Aiman Athirah said blowers boost productivity by collecting leaves, grass, and dust faster and over a wider area than manual methods.

“Indirectly, it also helps concession companies meet their Key Performance Indicators and service standards, while reducing reliance on foreign labour and easing worker shortages in public cleaning,” she said. — Bernama