Reducing workplace risks with new safety framework
Lee U-Wen
Singapore
THE government will launch a public consultation exercise this week to gather views and feedback on a new mandatory framework that will incorporate the safety of construction workers in building plans.
This mandatory Design for Safety (DfS) framework, will require developers to ensure that their building designs are safe, and address work-related risks and hazards upstream, said Manpower Minister Tan Chuan-Jin.
"If we can eliminate hazards right from the start, at the design and planning phase, then there will be fewer risks that we have to with deal during the construction and maintenance stage," he said, adding that his ministry has already started industry consultations on the DfS regulations.
Mr Tan was speaking on Saturday at City Developments Limited's (CDL) 5-star Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) Awards ceremony, currently into its 10th year. He presented to the winners of the various categories - the EHS Excellence Award, Productivity Excellence Award, Workers' Welfare Award, and the new CDL Safe Worker Award. The awards recognise builders and workers for upholding safety, health and well-being standards at the workplace.
Mr Tan said that achieving good workplace safety and health (WSH) outcomes should not be seen as a trade-off to bottomlines or meeting deadlines. "Good WSH habits protect lives and keep our workers healthy so that they can return home safely and healthily at the end of every work day. This is the best way to retain your workers and maximise productivity," he said.
As part of the festivities, Mr Tan also watched the final of the CDL EHS Cup football tournament at the Bishan Stadium, which was won by Hyundai Engineering & Construction.
The competition saw workers from various construction firms battle it out on the field, which CDL organised to foster camaraderie and promote a healthy lifestyle among workers. Some workers also won prizes such as grocery vouchers and electronic gadgets from a lucky draw. Workers staying at quarters at CDL's new worksites will also soon get computers and free Wi-fi connections to help them connect with their families in their home countries.
