Introduction

SINGAPORE – In a heartbreaking incident on January 2, 2025, a 29-year-old construction worker tragically lost his life after being struck in the chest by a concrete pump hose at the Tengah Build-To-Order (BTO) project site. This event marks the first recorded workplace fatality of the year, and it raises more alarming concerns about safety in the construction sector, which saw a dramatic rise in fatalities in late 2024.

Details of the Incident

The incident took place around 8:40 PM at the Plantation Edge I and II construction site located at Plantation Crescent and Plantation Close. The worker, who hailed from India, was performing casting work—a method essential in construction to form structures like concrete walls and slabs—when disaster struck.

Cause of the Accident

According to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), the pump truck, which was meant to safely deposit concrete, experienced a significant malfunction when one of its outriggers punctured the ground. This caused the massive machine to tilt, leading to the fatal strike of the hose.

Emergency Response and Investigation

Emergency responders rushed the injured man to Gleneagles Hospital, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries later that night. Authorities were notified of the incident shortly after 1 AM on January 3, and preliminary investigations have indicated that no foul play is suspected.

Company Response and Support for the Family

The worker was employed by Keong Hong Construction, part of Keong Hong Holdings, which had recently secured a $293.7 million contract to construct the 1,010-unit BTO project. The company disclosed that the worker had been with them since 2019, emphasizing their commitment to support his grieving family, including financial assistance.

Safety Measures and Investigations

Operations at the Tengah site have been temporarily suspended as investigations progress. Keong Hong expressed their deep remorse over the incident, affirming their dedication to worker safety and announcing a thorough review of safety protocols and procedures to prevent future accidents.

Involvement of Housing and Development Board (HDB) and MOM

The Housing and Development Board (HDB) is also involved, promising full support to the worker's family during this tragic time and reaffirming their commitment to workplace safety at all construction sites. MOM has underscored that it is crucial for employers and contractors to ensure machinery outriggers are always fully extended and resting on stable foundations to enhance worker safety. 'There must be no compromises on workplace safety at all times,' MOM stated firmly.

Future Safety Measures

The alarming rise in incidents led to HDB implementing advanced safety measures in response to growing concerns, including the use of artificial intelligence and video analytics in new housing projects to detect potentially dangerous situations on-site.

Conclusion

As we mourn the loss of another life in the construction industry, the urgent question remains: What steps will be taken to prevent such unfortunate incidents in the future? The entire community watches closely as the investigation unfolds, hoping for meaningful changes that prioritize the safety of all workers.