Singapore Urges Heightened Safety Measures for Contractors and Construction Workers Ahead of Chinese New Year
In a tragic incident at the Plantation Edge I & II Build-to-Order (BTO) project construction site in Tengah, a 29-year-old Indian national lost his life after being struck in the chest by a concrete pump truck’s hose. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has issued a stern warning, emphasizing the importance of safety as the Chinese New Year approaches.
### The Fatal Incident
The victim was engaged in casting works when the accident occurred, causing the concrete pump truck to tilt due to one of its outriggers puncturing the ground. Despite being rushed to Gleneagles Hospital, the worker succumbed to his injuries. The construction worker was employed by Keong Hong Construction, the main contractor for the Tengah Plantation project, slated for completion in 2027.
### MOM’s Urgent Call to Action
With the festive season around the corner, MOM is urging both contractors and workers to remain vigilant, highlighting the time pressures often faced by companies during this period. The ministry stressed that workplace safety is non-negotiable and reaffirmed its commitment to rigorous enforcement measures.
### Safety Measures and Investigations
In light of the tragic incident, MOM emphasized the importance of fully extending machinery outriggers on stable foundations to ensure operational stability. The incident is currently under investigation, with MOM working diligently to uncover the root cause and prevent future occurrences.
### Collaborative Efforts for Safety
Housing and Development Board (HDB), the project developer, expressed deep regret over the worker’s demise and pledged full cooperation with authorities in the investigation. Safety remains a top priority for HDB, which is actively collaborating with industry partners to enhance workplace safety standards.
In the wake of this heartbreaking event, it is crucial for all stakeholders in the construction industry to prioritize safety above all else. Let us honor the memory of the lost worker by ensuring that every individual on a construction site returns home safely at the end of each day. Stay alert, stay safe.