In March 2023, two fire incidents at the workplaces of Premium Automobiles Pte Ltd and Sika (Singapore) Pte Ltd occurred due to the lack of effective controls for flammable substances. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) conducted enforcement operations in March and inspected more than 120 motor workshops and manufacturing workplaces handling substantial quantities of flammable substances.
Through the enforcement operations, MOM uncovered offences such as inadequate safe work procedures for managing flammable substances, improper storage of flammable substances, and not providing suitable personal protective equipment to workers. 11 companies with very poor or no controls for managing flammable substances were issued with composition fines amounting to S$27,000.
“Fire and explosion pose a serious threat to life and property as demonstrated in the 2021 Stars Engrg Pte Ltd’s case where three workers died and five injured. Companies that handle flammable substances must take the fire and explosion risk seriously and ensure that effective control measures are in place. Workers must be informed of the risks and trained on the precautions to undertake, including being equipped with adequate personal protective equipment. MOM will continue to take strict enforcement actions against errant companies.” – Mr Sebastian Tan, Director, Occupational Safety and Health Inspectorate, MOM.
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