WSH Alert - Crushed By Toppled Gate

 Driver crushed by toppled gate

On 9 June 2023, a prime mover driver was closing a steel sliding gate at the entrance of a warehouse when the gate travelled beyond its stopper and toppled onto him. He was sent to the hospital where he died the same day.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the stopper affixed at the top of the gate was worn, which could have resulted in the gate travelling beyond its guide bracket. 

If sliding gates are not properly designed, installed, operated, or maintained, they can topple and lead to serious and even fatal workplace injuries. The WSH Council calls on all companies with such gates at their premises to put in place the necessary safety measures to prevent gate toppling incidents.

What Company Should Do
Companies should review and make sure adequate safety measures have been made and implemented for sliding gates at their workplaces. Some of these measures include:

• Design of gate stopper: Stoppers should be designed and sized to prevent derailment during operation. Corrosion, weathering and repetitive use may make the stopper ineffective and the gate unsafe. Seek the manufacturer’s advice on replacing the stoppers in such cases.

• Report defects: Stop using the gate immediately if any defect is spotted on the gate. Report the defect to the gate’s manufacturer as soon as possible. Work with the manufacturer to develop safe work procedures for handling defective gates.

• Gate inspection and maintenance: Gates should be inspected and maintained based on the manufacturer's recommendations. If the stopper needs to be removed during maintenance, the gate must be properly propped and supported to prevent toppling. Warning signs and barricades should also be put up to warn and keep others away from the unsecured gate.

• Gate repair: Only trained and authorised personnel can carry out repair work on the gate.

• Gate modification: Do not modify any part of the gate and its components unless approved by the gate’s manufacturer. 

For more information, refer to the Circular on Safety Considerations in Gate Design and Operation.

Under the WSH Act, first-time corporate offenders may be sentenced to the maximum fine of $500,000 whilst individuals can either be sentenced to the maximum fine of $200,000 and/or an imprisonment not exceeding 2 years. Read more on the WSH Act penalties.

WSH Alert -Semi Conscious Head Injury

 Worker found semi-conscious with head injury

On 2 May 2023, a worker who had completed erecting a wall in a worksite was found beside the wall semi-conscious and with head injuries. The worker was sent to the hospital where he died the same day.

Preliminary findings indicate that the worker could have collapsed and struck his head against the ground.

Construction workers may be exposed to various workplace hazards due to the nature of their work.

The WSH Council calls on all companies taking on similar work activities to put in place the necessary measures to protect the health and safety of workers.

Companies should assess and ensure that their WSH management system includes the following measures or checks:

• Worker health: Before starting work, check that workers:

 (i) are fit to carry out the assigned task;

(ii) are feeling well; and 

(iii) have enough time for meals and medication needed to manage chronic diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol. These conditions may cause dizziness or loss of consciousness if not well-managed with medication.

• Workplace housekeeping: Ensure that the worksite is kept as dry as possible and free of materials / debris to prevent slips and trips.

• Protect against falling objects: Loose materials and tools should be removed from height or otherwise, properly secured to reduce the risk of being struck by falling objects.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Instruct workers to put on their safety helmet with chin strap while at all work areas where head injuries are possible. Equip workers with anti-slip safety shoes.

For more information, refer to the WSH Council’s Code of Practice on WSH Risk Management, and WSH Guidelines on Workplace Housekeeping.

Under the WSH Act, first-time corporate offenders may be sentenced to the maximum fine of $500,000 whilst individuals can either be sentenced to the maximum fine of $200,000 and/or an imprisonment not exceeding 2 years. Read more on the WSH Act penalties.

WSH Alert - Worker pinned by structure

 Worker pinned by collapsed structure

On 15 June 2023, a wall segment at the second storey of a building under demolition collapsed.

A worker who was walking along the pedestrian walkway beside the worksite hoarding was pinned by the collapsed structure. He was extricated from the rubble and pronounced dead at the scene.

What companies should do

Demolition works are high-risk construction activities. A demolition method statement must be prepared by a Professional Engineer. The method statement must ensure that before and during the demolition of any structure, the stability of the walls, ceilings, slabs, beams, and all other structures adjacent to the structure to be demolished is determined, taking into account the different designs and internal elements of each portion of the structure.

To prevent similar accidents, consider the following measures: 

• Pre-demolition survey: Conduct a detailed survey to assess the structural stability of the building and its surroundings before any demolition work begins. Install additional supports, e.g. shores, braces, and ties to prevent any structure or component from becoming unstable during demolition.

• Demolition plan: Establish a demolition plan detailing the demolition sequence and approach. Consider the structural supports and condition of the building to be demolished. Inform all workers of the method statement and safe sequence of work.

• Permit-to-work (PTW) system: A PTW system should be put in place to ensure all safe working conditions are met.

• Safe work method: Adopt a top-down wall-hacking approach to reduce the possibility of collapse of any large wall segment. Carry out the work in a safe and controlled manner that does not compromise the integrity of the remaining structure. Activity-based risk assessments must be carried out and relevant risk controls and safe work procedures must be implemented. 

• Work supervision: Supervise demolition work activities to ensure they are carried out according to the method statement safely. Supervisors should also monitor the site frequently for possible unsafe conditions and/or safety lapses.

• Safety training: Developers should consider sending their demolition contractors, consultant representatives, and supervisory staff to the demolition safety course conducted by the Singapore Contractors Association Limited.

For more information on safe demolition practices, please refer to the SS 557: 2010 Code of Practice for Demolition and WSH Council’s Technical Advisory for Demolition.

Under the WSH Act, first-time corporate offenders may be sentenced to the maximum fine of $500,000 whilst individuals can either be sentenced to the maximum fine of $200,000 and/or an imprisonment not exceeding 2 years. Read more on the WSH Act penalties.

WSH Alert -Worker Pinned By Forklift

Technician pinned by forklift mast

On 28 April 2023, a technician was preparing to carry out repair works on a forklift when the forklift’s mast fell on him. The technician was pronounced dead at the scene by attending paramedics.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the locking pins of the mast were removed without first securing the mast

Workers involved in vehicular repair may be exposed to physical hazards when working with vehicle parts or engine components. The WSH Council calls on all companies carrying out vehicular repair to ensure worker safety and undertake an assessment of their safety measures.

What companies should do

Companies should assess and ensure that their WSH management system includes the following measures or checks:

• Competent worker: Deploy only trained and authorised forklift technicians to assemble/ disassemble, repair or maintain a forklift. Only workers who have completed the WSQ Operate Forklift course are allowed to move and operate the forklift.

• Safe work method: Provide workers with the Safe Work Procedure (SWP) for mast disassembly. The SWP must include steps to control the risk of forklift masts falling onto workers. To prevent the mast from toppling, it must be either properly secured or held in place before any locking pins are removed. Securing may be achieved, for example, by attaching the mast to a suitable support structure. The mast may be held in place, for example, by using a hoist, crane, or the forks of another forklift.

Consult the forklift manufacturer for specific advice on how the mast may be safely removed for the model.

• Safe work position: Brief workers on the risk of mast toppling during mast disassembly, mark out the mast fall zone, and ensure no one is in the fall zone before the mast locking pins are removed.

• Work supervision: Provide on-site supervision to ensure workers are aware of the hazards present and that the SWP is followed closely.

For more information, refer to Code of Practice on WSH Risk Management, Chapter 8 (Maintenance and Servicing) of the WSH Guidelines on Safe Operation of Forklift Trucks, and Chapter 4.4 (Maintenance of Machines) of the WSH Guidelines on Safe Use of Machinery.

Other relevant resources include UK Health and Safety Executive’s guidance document “Health and Safety in Motor Vehicle Repair and Associated Industries” and US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s fatal accident report “Maintenance Worker Struck by Forklift Carriage

Under the WSH Act, first-time corporate offenders may be sentenced to the maximum fine of $500,000 whilst individuals can either be sentenced to the maximum fine of $200,000 and/or an imprisonment not exceeding 2 years. Read more on the WSH Act penalties.

During the extended Heightened Safety Period (1 September 2022 to 31 May 2023), the Ministry of Manpower will impose severe actions for serious WSH lapses, which include:

• Debarment from hiring new work pass holders.

• Company leaders to personally account to MOM and take responsibility for rectifications, and attend a mandatory half-day in-person WSH training course.

• Engaging external auditors to conduct a thorough review of company’s WSH processes.

Safe Handling of Flammable Materials

 SAFE HANDLING OF FLAMMABLE MATERIALS

There were two separate incidents involving flammable materials in the first two weeks of March 2023. 

On 7 March, an explosion in a room caused a section of the building wall to collapse. Preliminary investigations revealed the explosion was caused by the accumulation of flammable vapours from a waste oil tank placed in a lift motor room. 

On 13 March, a large fire occurred at an industrial chemical blending and storage warehouse. Preliminary investigations revealed the fire started from an adhesive dispensing unit containing flammable solvents. The fire eventually engulfed the warehouse and its connecting production areas. 

While no one was badly injured, both incidents highlight the need for workplaces to better manage flammable materials as workplace fires can lead to mass casualties and cause extensive damage to assets. 

As we are still in the midst of the Heightened Safety Period, the WSH Council calls on all companies storing or handling flammable materials, including flammable waste, to undertake an urgent assessment of their safety measures. Examples of flammable materials include petroleum products, volatile organic solvents, and all substances listed in the Fourth Schedule of the Fire Safety (Petroleum and Flammable Materials) Regulations. Workplaces storing or handling flammable materials should ensure the effective implementation of the following measures: 

Risk assessment 

• Use Safety Data Sheet (SDS) information as input to risk assessments.
 • Look out for advice and precautions on storage, handling, and disposal in the SDS. 

Training and awareness 

• Place the control of flammable materials under a competent person and allow only authorised workers who have been trained on the hazards and precautions to take, to handle flammable materials. 

• Provide readily accessible copies of Safety Data Sheets to persons using or handling flammable materials. 

Storage 

• Ensure that storage areas are well-ventilated to prevent flammable vapour accumulation. Flammable storage must be segregated from heat and ignition sources e.g. open flames, hot work, sparks, hot surfaces). Examples include fire-rated or flammable storage cabinets, and dedicated storage areas with fire protection provisions.
• Optimise the quantity of flammable materials stored on site to as low as reasonably practicable, considering the required quantities for use during production.
• Use spill control pallets or build dikes/curbs with adequate drainage to contain potential spills.
• Affix GHS labels for flammable raw material and product storage containers.
• Provide flammable material storage areas with adequate firefighting equipment. 

Handling
• Ensure risk control measures are implemented to address hazards associated with flammable materials, including:

•  Implementing effective control of ignition sources; 
• Bonding and grounding of metal containers to prevent ignition by electrostatic discharge during flammable liquid transfers; 
•  Transferring flammable materials under local exhaust ventilation to prevent accumulation of flammable vapours; 
• Keeping containers of flammable material closed when not in use to minimise fugitive emissions of flammable vapours; and 
• Installing gas detectors or using portable gas detectors to continuously monitor the work environment where practicable. • Ensure workers put on personal protective equipment (e.g. fire-retardant clothing, face shield, respirator, gloves and safety boots) when working with flammable materials.

• Plan and implement an effective emergency response plan. 

Disposal
• Label flammable waste containers according to the SS 603: 2021 Code of Practice for Hazardous Waste Management.
• Dispose flammable materials separately from general waste.
• Check for chemical compatibility before disposing waste into collection tanks. Never mix waste with another type of waste unless the constituents in both waste sources are known. If necessary, conduct laboratory tests to ascertain hazardous substances before combining waste from different sources.
• Treat mixtures of flammable liquids with other less flammable liquids, as flammable. For example, if waste kerosene is mixed with more flammable naphtha, the mixture should be stored and disposed as a flammable liquid.
• Monitor flammable material waste for prompt collections by Toxic Industrial Waste Collectors to minimise on-site waste inventory. 

For more information, refer to the WSH (Risk Management) Regulations, Fire Safety (Petroleum and Flammable Materials) Regulations, Environmental Public Health (Toxic Industrial Waste) Regulations, SS 532: 2016 Code of Practice for the Storage of Flammable Liquids, SS 603: 2021 Code of Practice for Hazardous Waste Management, and the WSH Council's Code of Practice on WSH Risk Management, WSH Guidelines on Management of Hazardous Chemicals Programme, and WSH Guidelines on Flammable Materials.  

Below are safe practices when handling flammable liquids

Charging in flammable liquids into blending vessel.

Use only explosion-proof portable air-operated pump.

Bond the flammable storage drums of raw material before charging.

Bond one of the raw material drums to the grounded explosion-proof portable air-operated pump before charging.

Ground the explosion-proof portable air-operated pump by earth wire with clamp to the fixed-grounding point.

WSH Alert - Worker Dies Falling From Roof

 

Worker dies after falling from roof 

On 26 February 2023, a worker was preparing to carry out water-proofing works on the roof of a factory when he fell 4.1 metres to the ground. He was sent to the hospital but died of his injuries on 1 March 2023.  

Preliminary investigations revealed that a horizontal lifeline was installed on the roof, but the worker was not wearing a safety harness or a safety helmet at the time of the accident. 

Working on roofs exposes workers to the risk of falling from height. The WSH Council calls on all companies doing work at height to ensure worker safety and undertake an urgent assessment of their safety measures. 

What companies should do

Companies should urgently assess and ensure that their WSH management system includes the following measures or checks: 

• Fall Prevention Plan (FPP): Establish and implement a site-specific FPP to reduce the risk of falling from height when working on roofs.  

• Permit-to-Work (PTW) system: Put in place a PTW system for work activities where a person could fall more than three metres. Ensure on-site checks are carried out by a competent person and risk controls are confirmed effective before authorising the work at height.

• Safe Work Procedure (SWP): Develop a SWP for carrying out the task on the roof, taking into account the roof’s characteristics (e.g. material of construction, profile, and angle of slope) and the duration and frequency of work. Provide supervision to ensure the SWP is strictly followed.  

• Open side guarding: Install temporary guardrails or erect a scaffold platform with guardrails, if feasible, to prevent workers from falling off a roof edge. 

• Worker training: Deploy only workers who have successfully completed the Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) Perform Work at Height course to work on roofs. Train workers to always anchor their safety harnesses when working at height.   

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Equip roof workers with anti-slip safety footwear and fall-arrest or travel-restraint equipment along with secure anchor point(s) or lifeline.   

Note that the use of a standard lanyard with a shock absorber cannot be used if the fall clearance distance is too short to safely stop one’s fall before striking the ground. If the fall clearance distance is too short, the use of an immediate arrest self-retracting line is recommended. 

• Behavioural Observation and Intervention: Encourage workers to look out for one another and to stop risky behaviours before an accident occurs.  

For more information, refer to WSH (Work at Heights) Regulations 2013, WSH Council’s Code of Practice for Working Safely at Heights and WSH Guidelines for Working Safely on Roofs. Additional resources for work at height include WSH Guidelines on Anchorage, Lifelines and Temporary Edge Protection Systems, WSH Guidelines on Personal Protective Equipment for Work at Heights, and Case Studies: Accidents Involving Work at Heights. 

Under the WSH Act, first-time corporate offenders may be sentenced to the maximum fine of $500,000 whilst individuals can either be sentenced to the maximum fine of $200,000 and/or an imprisonment not exceeding 2 years. Read more on the WSH Act penalties.  

During the extended Heightened Safety Period (1 September 2022 to 31 May 2023), the Ministry of Manpower will impose severe actions for serious WSH lapses, which include:   

• Debarment from hiring new work pass holders.

• Company leaders to personally account to MOM and take responsibility for rectifications, and attend a mandatory half-day in-person WSH training course.

• Engaging external auditors to conduct a thorough review of company’s WSH processes.

Access to free work at height resources here for managers, supervisors, workers and safety professionals

WSH Alert - Harbour Pilot Died Overboard

 
2023 5th Workplace Accident
Harbour pilot dies after falling overboard

On 11 February 2023 at about 3 am, a harbour pilot was crossing over from a tugboat to a launch boat when he fell overboard. His body was recovered by rescue divers later the same morning. 

Preliminary investigations revealed that the pilot was wearing a life jacket and the sea was choppy at the time of the accident.

Transfers between vessels at sea expose workers to the risk of falling into water. Another accident where a worker fell into the sea while boarding a service boat occurred on 17 May 2022. The WSH Council calls on all maritime stakeholders performing similar activities to undertake an urgent assessment of their safety measures.

What companies should do

Companies should urgently assess and ensure that their WSH management system includes the following measures or checks:

• Safe transfer conditions: Do not proceed with vessel transfer if there are unfavourable weather or sea conditions, extensive vessel or boat movement, if anyone feels unwell, or if it feels unsafe to proceed. For safe boat-to-boat transfer at sea, it is ideal for both boats to be stationary and alongside each other. If stopping is not practical, both boats should be as slow as practicable and kept at the same speed.

• Safe vessel transfer: Establish and implement safe work procedures for transfer between vessels. Identify suitable transfer point(s) and allow transfers only at the designated point(s). Provide secure handholds and/ or footholds at each transfer point. Keep transfer points free of trip hazards and well-lit at night. Board only when the boat-to-boat transfer points are level with each other and under the direction of the launch master.

• Transfer supervision: Deploy workers on both boats to supervise and assist with the transfer, and to activate emergency response and rescue procedures if required.

• Worker competency: All personnel making vessel transfers should be trained on the safe work procedure for transfer.

• Right to decline boarding: Advise workers to stay alert and exercise caution during vessel transfer. Respect the right of workers to say no if the conditions for boarding are unfavourable.

• Emergency response: Equip each boat with life-saving equipment (e.g. life buoy with rope) for use in the event of a man-over-board situation. If a worker falls into the water, there must be a life buoy which he can hold on to so that his head stays above the water until he is rescued.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide workers with the necessary PPE (e.g. life jacket, safety boots, gloves, and safety helmet with chin strap) for transferring between vessels. The life jacket should be a working SOLAS-type approved life jacket or a life jacket meeting ISO 12402 Personal Flotation Device with a performance level 100 or higher. Place all life jackets on a regular inspection and maintenance programme to check their integrity and proper function so that they will work as intended during an emergency.

For more information, refer to the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore’s Guidelines for Safe Transfer of Persons between Vessels at Anchorages; the WSH (General Provisions) Regulations; and the WSH Council’s Guide to WSH for Service Providers on Safe Working on Ships at Anchorages, and Case Studies for Working In and Around Water.

Video on Safe Boarding of Vessel

Under the WSH Act, first-time corporate offenders may be sentenced to the maximum fine of $500,000 whilst individuals can either be sentenced to the maximum fine of $200,000 and/or an imprisonment not exceeding 2 years. Read more on the WSH Act penalties.

During the extended Heightened Safety Period (1 September 2022 to 31 May 2023), the Ministry of Manpower will impose severe actions for serious WSH lapses, which include:

• Debarment from hiring new work pass holders.

• Company leaders to personally account to MOM and take responsibility for rectifications, and attend a mandatory half-day in-person WSH training course.

• Engaging external auditors to conduct a thorough review of company’s WSH processes.

* Information on the accident is based on preliminary investigations by the Ministry of Manpower as at 14 February 2023. This may be subject to change as investigations are still on-going. Please also note that the recommendations provided here are not exhaustive and they are meant to enhance workplace safety and health so that a recurrence may be prevented. The information and recommendations provided are not to be construed as implying liability on any party nor should it be taken to encapsulate all the responsibilities and obligations under the law.

WSH Alert -Worker Struck By Toppled Glass

Workers struck by toppled glass doors

On 2 February 2023, a group of workers was unpacking glass doors from a shipping container when nine of the doors (each weighing about 120 kg) toppled and struck two of the workers. One worker died of his injuries while the other had to be hospitalised.  

Preliminary investigations revealed that the glass doors were being unpacked from the shipping container without any form of support or restraint.

Figure 1: Shipping container with the glass doors before unpacking.

Figure 2: Position of the toppled glass doors after the accident.

Transportation of heavy material not secured in a stable position, such as glass panels stacked vertically, poses a high risk of the material toppling onto workers. The WSH Council calls on all companies handling heavy materials, including glass panels, to undertake an urgent assessment of their safety measures.

What companies should do

Companies should urgently assess and ensure that their WSH management system includes the following measures or checks:

• Container packing plan: Request from the supplier a detailed packing plan which provides information on the contents of the shipping container such as the cargo inventory list, the weight of each cargo item, arrangement of cargo within the container, and how each item has been secured. If feasible, ask suppliers to pack the cargo in a stable or secured way, such that they will not topple during unpacking. 

• Safe unpacking method: Obtain from the supplier the instructions for safe container unpacking. The unpacking method depends on how the cargo was packed. The following are two recommended packing/ unpacking methods:

1. Bundling cargo into a crate or case within the container. The crate or case may then be moved in or out of the container using a purpose-built overhead travelling crane and/ or forklift with telescopic handlers.

2. In the case of glass panels, strap them onto palletised A-frame racks which can be moved in or out of the container using pallet jacks and/ or forklifts.

• Secured cargo: If the cargo cannot be bundled into a crate or strapped onto A-frame racks, ensure the cargo is secured in place with mechanical support (e.g. props, braces or frames) and/ or restraint belts attached to the anchor points inside the container. To prevent toppling and facilitate unpacking, remove the supports and restraints one at a time only for the cargo being moved whilst ensuring that the remaining items are still secured.

• Safe Work Procedure (SWP): Establish and implement a SWP for handling heavy cargo with toppling risks. The SWP should include the safe unpacking method, risk controls, safe working positions, and the mechanical handling equipment to be used. Train workers (including contractors and outsourced workers) on the safe unpacking method and provide on-site supervision to ensure the SWPs are closely followed.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide workers with the necessary PPE (e.g. safety helmet, safety shoes, safety eyewear, gloves, high-visibility reflective vest) for the unpacking task.

For more information, refer to SS 663: 2020 Code of Practice for Safe Loading on Vehicles, WSH Council’s Code of Practice on WSH Risk Management, WSH Guidelines on Safe Loading of Vehicles, and SafeWork NSW Australia’s Guide for Unpacking Shipping Containers.

Under the WSH Act, first-time corporate offenders may be sentenced to the maximum fine of $500,000 whilst individuals can either be sentenced to the maximum fine of $200,000 and/or an imprisonment not exceeding 2 years. Read more on the WSH Act penalties.

During the extended Heightened Safety Period (1 September 2022 to 31 May 2023), the Ministry of Manpower will impose severe actions for serious WSH lapses, which include:

• Debarment from hiring new work pass holders.

• Company leaders to personally account to MOM and take responsibility for rectifications, and attend a mandatory half-day in-person WSH training course.

• Engaging external auditors to conduct a thorough review of company’s WSH processes.

WSH Alert - Pump Attendant Struck By Car

 

Pump attendant knocked down by a car

On 19 January 2023, a pump attendant was walking towards a pump island when he was hit by a car exiting the petrol station. The attendant fell to the ground and later passed away due to his injuries.

The WSH Council calls on all companies involved in operating petrol stations to do an urgent assessment of their traffic safety measures to prevent vehicle accidents.

What companies should do

Companies should urgently assess and ensure that their WSH management system includes the following measures or checks:

• Traffic Management Plan (TMP): Implement a TMP to minimise the risk of vehicle collisions and improve the safety of all persons at a petrol station. Suggested risk controls include:   

-   implement a speed limit within the station and communicate this clearly via traffic signage;  

-   install road humps or rumble strips at strategic locations to slow down vehicle movement;  

-   post signage (e.g. at the pump island) and/ or road markings to remind drivers to keep a lookout for pedestrians;  

-   place convex mirrors to eliminate blind spots within the petrol station; and

-   provide pedestrian crossing(s) that are clearly visible to drivers to facilitate safe people’s movement to and from pump islands.

• Hazard communication: Brief workers on the possible workplace hazards and the dangers of distracted walking (e.g. walking while looking at one’s handphone) at a petrol station. Movement to and from pump islands should only be at designated pedestrian crossings. Equip each worker with a high-visibility reflective vest. 

For more information, refer to WSH Council’s WSH Guidelines on Workplace Traffic Safety Management and 6 Basic WSH Rules for Traffic Management.

Under the WSH Act, first-time corporate offenders may be sentenced to the maximum fine of $500,000 whilst individuals can either be sentenced to the maximum fine of $200,000 and/or an imprisonment not exceeding 2 years. Read more on the WSH Act penalties.

During the Heightened Safety Period (1 September 2022 to 28 February 2023), the Ministry of Manpower will impose severe actions for serious WSH lapses, which include:  

•    Debarment from hiring new work pass holders   

•    Company leaders to personally account to MOM and take responsibility for rectifications 

•    Engaging external auditors to conduct a thorough review of company’s WSH processes 

WSH Alert -Worker Crushed By Forklift

 

Worker Crushed Between Forklift & High Beam

On 7 July 2022, a worker was standing on the rear of a forklift to hang a cable on an overhead beam. However, the forklift suddenly moved backwards, resulting in the worker being crushed between the forklift and the beam. He died at the hospital.

Recommendations

Using the wrong equipment at work can result in serious injuries or even death. Forklifts should only be used to move goods on pallets. Forklifts are not meant for workers to gain access to higher work areas; use ladders or work platforms instead. Consider the following measures to prevent similar accidents:

• Safe work platform: Use a proper work platform for tasks requiring work at height.

• Safe Work Procedure: Develop a Safe Work Procedure (SWP) for the task. Communicate the SWP to workers and provide supervision to ensure the SWP is followed.

• Competent forklift operator: Allow only competent and authorised operators to operate forklifts. Ensure all forklift operators have completed the necessary certifications such as the Singapore Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) Operate Forklift Course. Forklift operators should never allow workers to stand on the forks or at the rear of the forklift.

• Preventive maintenance: Forklift servicing and maintenance should be carried out regularly according to the manufacturer’s recommendation. This is to prevent sudden forklift failure which can create an unsafe situation.

• Safe worker behaviour: Implement a behavioural observation and intervention initiative at your workplace. Encourage workers to look out for one another and empower them to stop the work should they come across an unsafe behaviour.

For more information, please refer to WSH Council’s Code of Practice for Working Safely at Heights, WSH Guidelines on Safe Operation of Forklift Trucks and WSH Guide to Behavioural Observation and Intervention.

WSH Alert -Worker thrown off forklift

Worker thrown off overturned forklift

On 23 February 2022, an operator was reversing a forklift on uneven ground within a worksite with an air compressor suspended from its fork by a sling.

The forklift subsequently overturned and threw him onto the ground. There was no seatbelt secured or any form of restraint. The operator was conveyed to the hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Recommendations

Unsafe or incorrect use of a forklift can cause it to overturn. To prevent similar accidents, consider the following measures:

• Operator competency: Allow only competent and authorised operators to operate forklifts. Ensure each forklift operator has completed certifications such as the Singapore Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) Operate Forklift Course.

• Seat belt: Instruct operators to put on their seat belts once within the forklift. The seat belt prevents the operator from being thrown out of the cabin in the event of an accident. Explore the use of technology to enable the forklift to work only if the seat belt is buckled.

• Safe handling: In general, forklifts are used for handling loads placed on top of a pallet. Do not use a forklift to hoist or suspend objects, even if within the rated load capacity unless the forklift is designed for it. Slings, cables or chains should not be attached onto the forks to hang objects without manufacturer’s approval.

• Safe loading: Never exceed the forklift’s rated load capacity. Handle all loads according to the height and weight restrictions on its load chart. Always check the load for balance. Use ropes or bindings to secure the load onto the pallet as necessary.

• Safe movement: Conduct a route risk assessment to identify site hazards (e.g. uneven ground, slopes) before using the forklift. Travel with the load tilted backwards on the pallet if possible, and keep forks as low as possible to increase forklift stability. Follow the worksite’s traffic management plan.

For more information, please refer to SS 573: 2012 Code of Practice for the Safe Use of Powered Counterbalanced Forklifts, WSH Guidelines on Safe Operation of Forklift Trucks and WSH Council’s Forklift Safety Pack 

WSH Alert - Worker dies while hoisting tree trunk

 

Worker dies while hoisting tree trunk

On 7 December 2022, a three-man team was loading cut tree trunks onto a lorry crane when a hoisted trunk dislodged from the lifting sling and struck one of the workers, causing him to fall and hit his head against the ground. The worker was sent to the hospital, where he passed away.

Preliminary investigations found that the cut tree trunk was not properly rigged before it was lifted. The worker who carried out the rigging was not trained as a rigger

Recommendations

This accident highlights the importance of safe lifting practices in the landscape sector, particularly for large or irregular-shaped loads. To prevent similar accidents, consider the following measures:

Lifting plan

Develop a lifting plan to determine the requirements for a safe lifting outcome before starting lifting operations. The lifting plan must be supported with a site-specific risk assessment, safe lifting procedure, and authorised via a permit-to-work system.

Competent Lifting Team

Set up a lifting team comprising only members who have received the necessary training for their respective role(s), e.g. crane operator, lifting supervisor, rigger, and signalman. Brief the lifting team on the lifting plan before each lifting operation. Loads must be properly rigged by a competent rigger.

Safe rigging method

During lifting operation, it is critical to maintain the centre of gravity (CG) of the load directly under the lifting hook. For long loads, the use of a two-legged sling with double-wrapped chokers is recommended (see Figure 2). The chokers must be at an equal distance from the load’s CG to prevent the load from tilting or swinging.

Figure 2

In cases where the CG is not obvious, consult an engineer or explore other load management solutions.

Load Management

Divide or cut large or irregular-shaped loads into smaller easier-to-manage portions, e.g. tree trunks can be cut into smaller pieces for safer lifting. Where practical, consider using a hopper container for lifting the smaller pieces instead of rigging directly to a large or irregular-shaped load.

Test lift

Before doing the actual lift, carry out a test lift by lifting the load slightly off the ground and stopping to check for anything abnormal. This is to verify the rigging, confirm load stability and ensure no overloading

Safe Work Position

Instruct workers never to stand under a suspended load. In cases where the load may tilt or swing, proceed with lifting operations only when all workers are at a safe distance away from the load and the path of load travel. Use tag lines to guide and control the movement of the load during the lift.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Provide PPE such as safety helmet, goggles, earmuffs, high visibility vest, gloves, and safety boots to all workers carrying out tree pruning works.

Work Supervision

Deploy a lifting supervisor onsite to ensure lifting activities are carried out according to the lifting plan and safe work procedures. The supervisor should also confirm that each worker has worn his/ her PPE correctly.

For more information, please refer to WSH (Operation of Cranes) Regulations 2011, WSH Council’s Code of Practice on Safe Lifting Operations in the Workplaces, WSH Guidelines for Landscape and Horticulture Management and WSH Guidelines on Safe Use of Lorry Cranes. 

WSH Alert -Worker Dies Falling From Ledge

 

Worker dies after falling from a ledge

On 12 January 2023, a worker was carrying out façade painting works at a condominium using a suspended scaffold (gondola). He stepped out of the gondola at level 3 and climbed over the parapet wall to use the stairs to reach level 4. He then climbed onto the open ledge on level 4. While working on the ledge, he fell and landed in the basement. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The worker was wearing a body harness but it was not anchored.

Facade painting or cleaning works are high-risk activities commonly carried out using gondolas and rope access. The WSH Council calls on all companies involved in facade painting or cleaning wort to undertake an urgent assessment of their safety measures to prevent falls from height

What companies should do

Companies should urgently assess and ensure that their WSH management system includes the following measures or checks:

• Safe use of gondolas: Instruct workers never to climb in or out of the gondola unless it is at rest, on the ground, or at a level that allows safe entry or exit. While in the gondola, each worker must put on a safety harness secured to an independent vertical lifeline.

• Safe working on ledges: Confirm with the building occupier or principal that the ledges are load bearing and able to support the weight of workers and their equipment Check for fragile surfaces and openings on the ledge. Install temporary edge protection (e.g. guardrails) at all open sides. If this is not possible, implement a fall prevention plan and permit-to-work system for all work at height activities where a worker could fall more than three metres. Provide anchor points or lifelines to which fall arrest equipment or travel restraints can be secured.

• Competent workers: Deploy only workers who have received adequate WSH training for working at height Emphasise to workers the importance of achieving 100% tie-off at all times whenever there is a risk of falling from height

• Hazard communication: Employers must communicate to workers (e.g. during daily toolbox meetings) the hazards in the designated work area and the risk controls in place before starting work.

MCSTs of residential and commercial properties are also expected to check that contractors doing works at height (such as painting works) within their properties implement the above measures. In addition, MCSTs should adopt the following:

• Hazard communication: The building occupier or principal must brief contractors on the worksite hazards and verify that risk controls have been implemented effectively before allowing contractors to start work.

• Use of technology: Consider the use of robots for facade painting or cleaning works to eliminate the need for works at height.

For more information, refer to the WSH (Scaffolds)Regulations 2011, and the WSH Council’s Code of Practice for Working Safely at Heights, WSH Guidelines on Anchorages,Lifelines and Temporary Edge Protection Systems, and WSH Guide for Management Corporation Strata Title

Under the WSH Act, first-time corporate offenders may be sentenced to the maximum fine of $500,000 whilst individuals can either be sentenced to the maximum fine of $200,000 and/or an imprisonment not exceeding 2 years. Read more on the WSH Act penalties.

Relevant parties such as MCSTs, managing agents and contractors may be liable for prosecution under the WSH Act if they have breached any of their duties under the Act.

During the Heightened Safety Period (1 September 2022 to 28 February 2023), the Ministry of

Manpower will impose severe actions for serious WSH lapses, which include:

• Debarment from hiring new work pass holders

• Company leaders to personally account to MOM and take responsibility for rectifications

• Engaging external auditors to conduct a thorough review of company’s WSH processes , Relevant parties such as MCSTs, managing agents and contractors may be liable for prosecution under the WSH Act if they have breached any of their duties under the Act.

During the Heightened Safety Period (1 September 2022 to 28 February 2023), the Ministry of Manpower will impose severe actions for serious WSH lapses, which include:

• Debarment from hiring new work pass holders

• Company leaders to personally account to MOM and take responsibility for rectifications

• Engaging external auditors to conduct a thorough review of company’s WSH processes