Singapore's Construction Sector Initiates Two-Week Safety Time-Out

In response to recent fatal incidents in the construction sector and the approach of the festive season, construction companies are urged to implement a two-week safety timeout from Nov 8 to Nov 22. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM), along with the Multi-Agency Workplace Safety and Health Taskforce and industry associations, made the call on Thursday, highlighting a worrying trend in workplace safety. From July to October, the sector recorded 10 fatalities, which MOM says indicates a reduced focus on safety standards.

With the festive season approaching, MOM stresses the importance of vigilance as companies may face pressure to meet project deadlines before workers go on leave. During the timeout, senior management is encouraged to engage with site teams, review safety protocols, and address any safety concerns.

A safety timeout is a period where companies pause regular operations to assess and enhance their workplace safety and health systems. Following the review, companies should implement updates and maintain strong safety practices.

Based on recent incidents, MOM has advised companies to focus on three critical safety areas: preventing accidents from falling objects, ensuring vehicular safety, and maintaining safe lifting and rigging practices.