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Tighter workplace safety regulations in the works following spate of worksite deaths

Tessa Oh
Published Thu, Jun 23, 2022 · 12:46 PM
    • While the fatality rate in the construction sector has reduced significantly, the spike in workplace fatalities this year is worrying, according to Manpower Minister Tan See Leng.
    • While the fatality rate in the construction sector has reduced significantly, the spike in workplace fatalities this year is worrying, according to Manpower Minister Tan See Leng. PHOTO: AFP

    A HARMONISED disqualification criteria is being developed for public sector construction tenders to disqualify contractors with poor work practices, announced Manpower Minister Tan See Leng on Thursday (Jun 23).

    The demerit points system for breaches under the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Act will also be reviewed to ensure its relevance and effectiveness, said Dr Tan at the Singapore Contractors Association Ltd’s (Scal) Safety and Health Campaign 2022. 

    “This means that safer construction companies will have better business opportunities,” added Dr Tan.  “The unsafe firms will be disqualified from competing with you for government contracts or will have a tougher time getting foreign manpower because they have demerit points.”

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