SINGAPORE -

In a shocking report released by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) on October 9, 2024, it was revealed that 19 workers tragically lost their lives in workplace incidents during the first half of this year, a stark rise from 14 deaths reported in the same timeframe in 2023. As Singapore continues to grapple with workplace safety, the key culprits have been identified: vehicular incidents topped the list, followed closely by falls from heights. These two causes alone accounted for an alarming 58 percent of the fatalities.

The construction, marine, transportation and storage, and manufacturing sectors were identified as the most dangerous, responsible for a staggering 63 percent of the reported fatalities. Notably, the construction industry saw five deaths—a decrease from seven in early 2023. The marine sector, however, experienced a concerning rise, reporting four deaths when none had occurred in the previous year.

The report also highlights more grim statistics: there have been at least five additional workplace deaths between July and September 2024, raising the year’s total to a minimum of 24 fatalities. Last year, Singapore recorded 36 workplace deaths. MOM’s figures indicate a slight uptick in the workplace fatality rate, now sitting at one death per 100,000 workers, compared to 0.8 deaths in the first half of 2023.

On a more positive note, the number of major injuries has decreased, with 293 cases reported—a decline from 316 in the same six-month period in 2023. The leading causes of major injuries were slips, trips, falls, machinery incidents, and falls from heights, accounting for 59 percent of the incidents.

The manufacturing sector has made strides, with a remarkable 35 percent drop in fatalities and major injuries from 92 cases in the first half of 2023 to just 60 in 2024. The special focus turned to metalworking, where severe cases nearly halved, dropping from 40 to 22.

Despite these gains, critics remain cautious. Senior Minister of State for Manpower, Zaqy Mohamad, emphasized that many workplace fatalities are preventable and that complacency among experienced workers is a serious concern. The MOM plans to intensify safety inspections and enhance safety regulations, particularly in high-risk sectors.

Mr. Zaqy acknowledged the need for caution, stating, “It’s not just about putting it in place, but measuring outcomes and giving the industry time to adjust.”

The encouraging trend in the manufacturing sector may be attributed to the extension of a demerit point system, which penalizes companies for safety violations. With such measures, Zaqy stressed that eliminating workplace tragedies is a collective responsibility involving employers and workers alike.

Overall, while the recent statistics present glimmers of hope for workplace safety in Singapore, the Ministry of Manpower is resolutely focusing on minimizing fatalities and ensuring that every worker returns home safely at the end of the day. The fight against workplace accidents continues, but with consistent efforts, the goal of achieving a fatality rate below one per 100,000 workers remains within reach.

The discussion around workplace safety is ongoing, as stakeholders across the board reflect on the stark reality of potential hazards, urging an urgent call to action for safer work environments.