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If you work with lifting machines, pressure vessels, or industrial equipment in Malaysia, you’ve probably heard the term PMA. It’s been around for years and still appears on documents, labels, and in everyday conversations. But under today’s law, PMA is no longer the official term. To stay compliant, you need to understand what PMA means, why it’s still widely used, and what it’s now officially called.
Key Takeaways:
PMA is now legally referred to as Certificate of Fitness (CF) under OSHA 1994. All lifting machines, pressure vessels, and boilers must have a valid CF issued by DOSH before use.
The CF is valid for 15 months and requires proper design approval, professional inspection, and timely renewal. Using expired or uncertified machinery can lead to fines up to RM100,000.
Owners and occupiers are legally responsible for ensuring safe installation, inspection, and maintenance. Working with registered engineers and inspectors helps ensure full compliance and avoid operational delays.
What is PMA?
PMA stands for Perakuan Memperbolehkan Alat. It used to be the approval certificate issued by DOSH (Department of Occupational Safety and Health) for certain types of machinery. You’d need it to legally operate items like cranes, boilers, or hoists. For many years, PMA was the standard reference for fitness certification in heavy industries.
Why It’s Still Commonly Used
Although the law has changed, the term PMA still shows up often. Why?
Contractors and engineers have used the term for decades.
Equipment suppliers often still label approvals as PMA.
DOSH officers and industry workers are familiar with it.
The habit has stuck, especially on-site or during verbal checks.
You might hear questions like, “Is the PMA valid?” or “Where’s the PMA copy?”—even in recent projects.
Clarify the New Name Under Law: “Perakuan Kelayakan” (Certificate of Fitness)
Under OSHA 2022, the official term is now Perakuan Kelayakan, also known in English as the Certificate of Fitness (CF). It replaces PMA as the recognized legal certificate for equipment fitness.
What should you do?
Use Perakuan Kelayakan in formal applications and reports.
Understand that PMA and Certificate of Fitness refer to the same purpose.
Ensure your equipment is registered correctly with DOSH under the new term.
Knowing both terms helps you bridge the gap between legal requirements and everyday practice.
What Is PMA / Certificate of Fitness (CF)?
PMA means Perakuan Memperbolehkan Alat. It refers to a certificate once issued by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) to confirm that a machine is safe to use.
Today, the official term is Certificate of Fitness (CF) or Perakuan Kelayakan. It serves the same purpose but follows the requirements under the current law.
You need this certificate for items like:
Lifting machines
Unfired pressure vessels
Steam boilers
Without it, operating these machines is illegal.
Historical Use Under FMA 1967
Before OSHA 1994, Malaysia followed the Factories and Machinery Act 1967 (FMA 1967).
Under FMA 1967:
PMA was the standard term.
DOSH issued the PMA after equipment passed inspection.
PMA confirmed that a machine met safety and operational standards.
The term became deeply rooted in workplace practices.
Still seeing PMA in old documents? That’s from the FMA period.
Transition to CF Under OSHA 1994
OSHA 1994 replaced FMA 1967 as the main law for occupational safety.
Under OSHA:
PMA was replaced with Perakuan Kelayakan.
The legal term now is Certificate of Fitness (CF).
All equipment must meet current requirements to obtain CF.
Your documents and records should reflect this update.
Still using PMA in official forms? You risk non-compliance.
Role of DOSH (JKKP) in Enforcement
DOSH, also known as JKKP, handles all inspections and certifications.
They:
Conduct site visits and testing.
Issue CF after the equipment is approved.
Maintain a database of certified machinery.
Need to renew your CF? Contact DOSH early.
Make sure your equipment records are accurate and up to date. Always check if the CF is still valid.
Types of Machinery Requiring PMA
Not all machines need a PMA or Certificate of Fitness (CF). Only specific types fall under this requirement. If you use or own any of the following, you must apply for approval through DOSH.
Lifting Equipment
These machines move heavy loads or people. They must be inspected and certified before use.
Common examples:
🟦 Cranes
Used on construction sites to lift building materials.
🟧 Hoists
Found in factories and workshops for vertical lifting.
🟥 Gondolas
Used for building maintenance at high levels, like window cleaning systems.
🟨 Passenger Lifts and Goods Lifts
Installed in buildings for moving people or freight between floors.
Do your machines fall into these categories? If yes, they need a valid CF before you operate them.
Pressure Vessels and Steam Boilers
These are high-risk items. Any failure can lead to serious accidents. DOSH strictly regulates them.
Common types include:
🔵 Unfired Pressure Vessels (UPV)
Used in industries to store compressed gases or liquids under pressure.
🟤 Steam Boilers
Used in power plants, factories, and hotels to generate steam for heating or energy.
Have you checked the last inspection date on your pressure system?
If the CF has expired, you must renew it before restarting operations.
Summary
All machines listed here must comply with DOSH rules. This means:
Registered with DOSH
Inspected by a competent person
Issued with a valid Certificate of Fitness
Ignoring these steps risks legal action and shutdowns. Always verify your equipment meets current safety standards.
Legal Requirements & Compliance
If you operate lifting machinery, boilers, or pressure vessels in Malaysia, you must comply with P.U. (A) 99/2024. This regulation enforces mandatory safety certification under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) 1994.
Clause 3: Mandatory Certificate of Fitness (CF)
Clause 3 of P.U. (A) 99/2024 clearly states:
You must obtain a Certificate of Fitness (CF) before using any lifting machine, steam boiler, or pressure vessel.
This includes equipment such as cranes, hoists, gondolas, passenger lifts, UPVs, and industrial boilers.
The CF must be issued by DOSH after proper inspection and approval.
Have you registered your machine with DOSH?
If not, you are operating outside the law.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The law sets strict penalties for businesses or individuals who ignore these requirements.
Under Section 36 of OSHA 1994:
You may face a fine of up to RM100,000.
You may also face legal action or court charges.
Repeat violations can lead to higher fines and potential shutdowns.
These penalties apply to:
Owners who operate without a valid CF.
Contractors who fail to submit renewal applications.
Anyone using expired or unregistered machinery.
Don’t take the risk. Always check:
Is your CF still valid?
Has your equipment passed its most recent inspection?
Are your records complete and updated with DOSH?
Being proactive saves you time, money, and trouble.
Make CF compliance part of your monthly safety checklist.
Application Process
Getting a Certificate of Fitness (CF) for your machinery involves several key steps. This process ensures that all lifting machines, boilers, and pressure vessels are safe before use. If you’re still calling it PMA, it’s time to switch to the correct term—CF.
Design Verification
Before installation, submit your equipment design for approval.
Send the technical drawings to DOSH or a registered professional engineer.
Make sure the design follows Malaysian safety standards.
Wait for verification before proceeding.
Without approval at this stage, you can’t move forward.
Equipment Installation
Once your design is approved, install the equipment according to the approved layout.
Follow the original design specs.
Use qualified installers.
Document the process for future reference.
Did you make any changes during installation? You must report them.
Inspection by DOSH or Licensed Inspector
After installation, request a physical inspection.
Contact DOSH or a licensed inspection body.
Prepare supporting documents such as design drawings and test results.
Be present during the site visit for clarification.
If everything checks out, your equipment moves to the final step.
Issuance of CF (Formerly Known as PMA)
Once your equipment passes the inspection:
DOSH will issue the Certificate of Fitness (CF).
This document proves your equipment is safe and legal to use.
Keep it on-site and renew it before it expires.
Still waiting for your CF? Don’t start operations until it’s issued.
This process applies to all new equipment. It’s also required for modifications, relocations, or major repairs.
Always follow the correct steps—cutting corners can lead to penalties or shutdowns.
Certificate Validity & Renewal
Your Certificate of Fitness (CF) is not permanent. It has a fixed validity period and must be renewed to stay compliant with Malaysian safety laws.
Valid for 15 Months
Each CF is valid for 15 months from the date of issuance.
This applies to all lifting machines, steam boilers, and pressure vessels.
You must apply for renewal before the certificate expires.
Late renewal may result in fines or operational downtime.
When does your current CF expire?
Check now and set reminders in your maintenance calendar.
Requires Regular Maintenance & Periodical Inspection
To renew your CF, your equipment must pass another inspection.
What does this involve?
Routine maintenance
Keep your equipment in good working order. Clean it, lubricate it, and replace worn parts.Scheduled inspections
Hire a competent person or DOSH-approved inspector to perform checks. They will look at wear, alignment, control systems, and safety features.Detailed records
Keep maintenance logs and inspection reports. You will need to present these during renewal.
Planning to skip maintenance?
You might fail the inspection and delay your operations.
You should also:
Monitor daily usage
Train your operators to spot early warning signs
Report issues immediately to avoid escalation
Each piece of machinery has different stress levels based on usage.
Renewal isn’t just a rule—it’s part of protecting your staff and equipment.
Always renew your CF before the 15-month mark. Early action avoids costly delays and keeps your operations safe and legal.
Key Responsibilities
Owning or operating lifting machines, steam boilers, or pressure vessels comes with legal duties. These responsibilities fall mainly on the owner or occupier of the premises.
Owner/Occupier Must Ensure Safe Installation, Inspection, and Maintenance
If the equipment is under your name or installed on your site, you are responsible.
Your duties include:
Safe installation
Make sure all machines are installed by qualified contractors following approved designs.Inspection before use
Apply for a Certificate of Fitness (CF) before operating. Never run machines without approval.Regular maintenance
Set up a maintenance schedule. Keep written records of all repairs and servicing.Renew CF on time
The CF is valid for 15 months. You must apply for renewal before it expires.
Is your machine being used without inspection?
You’re at risk of legal action—even if someone else handles the operation.
Competent Person (PE / Inspector) Involvement
You cannot handle safety checks on your own. The law requires a competent person for all inspections and approvals.
This includes:
Professional Engineers (PE)
Qualified to verify design drawings and ensure compliance before installation.Authorized Inspectors
Registered with DOSH to carry out physical inspections and endorse renewal reports.
Working with the right professionals helps you avoid penalties and delays.
Choose someone with experience in your industry. Keep their contact on file for future inspections.
Remember—your equipment can only be certified if a competent person signs off the documents.
Always confirm their registration status with DOSH before assigning the job.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When managing lifting machinery, pressure vessels, or steam boilers, simple oversights can lead to serious problems. Avoid these frequent mistakes to stay safe and compliant.
Using Expired CF
A Certificate of Fitness (CF) is valid for 15 months. Many operators forget to renew it on time.
Always check the expiry date.
Set calendar reminders for inspection and renewal.
Keep physical and digital copies of your CF for easy access.
Using equipment with an expired CF can result in fines or shutdowns.
Ask yourself—do you know when your next renewal is due?
Importing Used Machines Without Documentation
Used equipment often lacks proper records. This can delay approvals or cause outright rejection.
Before you import:
Request original design drawings and CF copies.
Verify that the machine meets Malaysian standards.
Ensure a Professional Engineer (PE) can certify the equipment.
Missing documents mean you must restart the verification process—costing you time and money.
Do you know where your imported machine came from?
If not, pause and gather the paperwork before proceeding.
Skipping Verification Steps
Some try to skip design approval or inspection to save time. This is illegal and unsafe.
Every machine must go through:
Design verification before installation
On-site inspection before use
DOSH approval for CF issuance
Skipping even one step puts your project and team at risk.
Trying to cut corners?
It will cost more in the long run through penalties or rejected applications.
Follow each step carefully. Keep records. Stay in touch with your inspector or PE.
Avoid these mistakes, and your machinery will stay safe, legal, and operational.
FAQs About PMA
Still unsure about PMA and how it applies today? These common questions will help you clear things up fast.
Is PMA Still Valid Under Law?
No. PMA (Perakuan Memperbolehkan Alat) is no longer the official term.
The correct term under OSHA 1994 is Certificate of Fitness (CF) or Perakuan Kelayakan.
PMA was used under FMA 1967, which has been replaced.
DOSH now only issues CF for lifting machinery, steam boilers, and pressure vessels.
Do people still use “PMA”?
Yes, informally. But legally, only CF is accepted.
Can PMA Be Renewed Online?
You can’t renew “PMA” because it’s outdated.
To renew your Certificate of Fitness (CF):
Log into the MyKKP system at https://mykkp.dosh.gov.my.
Submit the inspection report and required documents.
Make payment through the portal.
Download the renewed CF once approved.
Need help using MyKKP?
Ask your appointed inspector or company safety officer for guidance.
Who Can Issue PMA / CF?
Only authorized parties can issue a valid CF.
These include:
DOSH (JKKP)—Official body for approval and enforcement
Authorized Inspectors—Licensed by DOSH to inspect and recommend CF
Professional Engineers (PE)—Certify design drawings and installation compliance
Not sure who to contact for inspection?
Check if your inspector is registered with DOSH.
Always keep a copy of their license or registration number.
Using an unlicensed party can void your application.
Knowing the difference between PMA and CF helps you stay compliant and avoid delays in approvals. Keep your processes clear and updated.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Compliance with Malaysia’s machinery safety laws is not optional. Whether you’re managing a crane, boiler, or pressure vessel, you are responsible for keeping your operations safe and legal.
Here’s what matters most:
Always apply for a valid Certificate of Fitness (CF) before using any regulated equipment.
Renew your CF every 15 months through MyKKP.
Work with licensed inspectors and professional engineers to meet all design and inspection requirements.
Avoid shortcuts—skipping steps or using expired CFs can lead to fines up to RM100,000.
Are you confident your equipment is up to date?
If you’re unsure, now is the right time to get support.
Advance HSE Solution offers expert consultation and inspection services tailored to your needs.
We can help you:
Review your current CF records
Identify expired or missing certifications
Assist with the MyKKP application process
Arrange certified inspections by qualified personnel
Ensure your design documents are compliant with DOSH standards
Not sure where to begin?
Our team can guide you step-by-step. From design verification to CF renewal—we make the process clear and manageable.
Let’s reduce your risk and avoid unnecessary penalties.
Contact Advance HSE Solution today to schedule a consultation or inspection service.
Make compliance part of your safety routine—not a last-minute scramble.
