More spot checks to ensure safer construction sites

By Cheryl Tay: In an effort to prevent construction-related accidents, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will increase its random inspections of construction sites by 50 percent in the coming weeks.The announcement follows recent high-profile worksite accidents, including the collapse of scaffolding at the Bugis Downtown Line construction site (pictured), and the multi-storey car park collapse at the former UIC Building.Kevin Teoh, Director at MOM's Occupational Safety and Health Inspectorate (OSHI), said: "Workplace safety can never be taken for granted....we believe that all accidents are preventable if measures are in place. The management of safety is all about planning."Every year, OSHI performs spot checks at around 3,000 construction sites, focusing on three main areas of concern: formwork, demolition and working at heights.Common safety lapses at construction sites are unstable scaffolding, poor lighting conditions, exposed wires and lack of appropriate barriers or support structures. If these lapses are found, then contractors could either be fined or issued a Stop Work Order that would prohibit work at a specific location or the entire worksite.Meanwhile, the number of construction fatalities and accidents dropped this year. In 1H2012, nine workplace deaths were recorded representing a rate of 2.2 deaths per 100,000 employed persons, as compared to last year's 12 fatalities or 3.2 deaths per 100,000 employed persons. Related Stories: Home Today, Gone Tomorrow Hougang to finally get upgrading works

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