Direct answer
Under the 2020 accommodation regulations, the stated minimum sleeping-floor area is 3.6 square metres per worker for non-dormitory accommodation and 3.0 square metres per worker for dormitory accommodation. Capacity also depends on facilities, layout, approvals and operating conditions.
Sleeping-floor area
- Non-dormitory accommodation: at least 3.6 m² of bedroom floor area per worker
- Dormitory accommodation: at least 3.0 m² of sleeping-area floor space per worker
Capacity is not an area-only calculation
A preliminary area calculation does not confirm lawful or practical capacity. Toilets, bathrooms, water, electricity, ventilation, beds, storage, common facilities, gender arrangements, safety, building use and local approvals may reduce the workable capacity.
Avoid reverse-engineering capacity
Do not begin with a target number of workers and force the property to fit. Begin with the approved property conditions, measurable usable spaces, facilities and safe operating model, then determine a conservative capacity.
Use a site assessment for real decisions
Measurements should be verified on site and interpreted together with the official regulations and relevant professional or authority requirements.
Primary sources
- Employees’ Minimum Standards of Housing, Accommodations and Amenities (Accommodation and Centralized Accommodation) Regulations 2020Department of Labour Peninsular Malaysia