‘We need to do better’ – PAP MP calls on companies to re-examine work procedures in wake of latest worksite fatality

SINGAPORE: NTUC assistant secretary-general and director of the labour movement’s Care Division, Melvin Yong Yik Chye, has called on construction companies involved in hazardous work activities to temporarily suspend work and re-examine work procedures to ensure that necessary safety measures are in place in the wake of the latest worksite fatality that took place on Monday (Oct 9).

A 29-year-old migrant worker lost his life following an incident at the Sun Sails BTO worksite in Sembawang, when he was allegedly struck by a concrete bucket, causing him to plummet from the eighth floor of the construction site.

Disturbing online photos depict the worker lying face up, seemingly unconscious, while several colleagues look on in shock. The Singapore Civil Defence Force, which was notified around 3 pm, conveyed the injured worker to Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries and died.

Preliminary investigations conducted by the police have ruled out any foul play.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday (Oct 11), Mr Yong also called on all companies to establish appropriate reporting channels as soon as possible for employees to report safety issues.

The ruling party MP added that NTUC had recently launched a “spot, stop and report” campaign to encourage employees to feel confident reporting any workplace safety concerns to management without fear of retaliation.

Asserting that “we need to do better,” he said: “There is yet another unfortunate workplace accident that resulted in a loss of life that could have been avoided. My heart goes out to the affected members of the family.

“This loss is a stark reminder of the importance of workplace safety and the need for continued vigilance in creating and maintaining safe working environments.”

Mr Yong added: “This tragedy should not have happened, and could be prevented. We must do all we can to prevent accidents from happening at the workplace. Let us continue to work together to look out for one another and make every workplace safer for every worker.”