Workplace Safety & Health Officer (Singapore) knowledge sharing blog

First Restaurant Convicted under the WSH Act for Workplace Safety and Health Lapses - WSHC & Bulletin

2010-09-29T16:18:00.004+08:00

9 Jul 2010

Raffles Marina Ltd was fined $80,000 today for its failure to take reasonably practicable measures to ensure workplace safety and health, thereby contributing to the death of a worker on 29 May 2009. Raffles Marina Ltd is the first restaurant to be convicted under the WSH Act since it was extended to cover restaurants from 1 March 2008

About the case

The incident happened on 29 May 2009 at Marina Bistro Coffee House located at 10 Tuas West Drive. The worker was a senior steward employed by Raffles Marina Ltd. The worker was likely to have either slipped due to the slippery floor or fallen when he stepped on one of the articles strewn on the kitchen floor of the dish washing area. He was carrying at least one plastic rack containing 25 glass wine goblets. The wine goblets shattered and cut the worker in the neck area. The worker was sent to the hospital where he died from excessive loss of blood as a result of a deep cut on the neck.

Investigations by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) showed that the employer had failed to take reasonably practicable measures to ensure that the workplace was safe and without risks. The employer failed to conduct risk assessment to identify and manage the hazards for the dishwashing activities. The employer also failed to ensure the kitchen was free from slipping and tripping hazards. Although the employer had issued a pair of safety boots to the worker for his use during the course of his work, it was insufficient to prevent the worker from falling.

Mr Heng Chiang Gnee, Deputy Chairman, Workplace Safety and Health Council said, “The death of a worker in the course of carrying out simple kitchen work shows that we must never take the safety at workplaces lightly. Employers must plan safe work procedures for all types of work, ensure that their workers are well briefed and implement safety measures effectively. Often, near misses during work, such as a slip at work, are not noted and no suitable immediate actions are taken to reduce risks and improve situations . To improve our safety management, there is a need to change mindset to seek out near misses and drive improvements even though near misses may not result in injuries. We should therefore all be mindful of the possible risks that our employees face everyday at work. If there are incidents or near-miss cases, measures must immediately be taken to prevent them from happening again. The Council urges all parties to pay serious attention to near-miss cases, or seemingly minor incidents, so that necessary steps can be taken to improve. With this mindset, we can then aim for safer workplaces for all our employees."

Mr Ho Siong Hin, Commissioner for Workplace Safety and Health, MOM added that the conviction of Raffles Marina Ltd serves as a stern warning to all workplaces to make safety and health a priority. He reminded all employers, individuals and stakeholders of the importance of ensuring and adhering to proper safety measures.

Please visit http://www.wshc.sg/ for more info.

Importance of Maintenance of MEWPs - WSHC & WSH Bulletin

2010-07-08T08:49:00.003+08:00

7 Jul 2010

A number of workers have lost their lives in recent incidents involving the use of mobile elevated work platforms (MEWP). The workers were trapped between components of the boom lift or scissor lift and surrounding structures. Therefore, it is important to ensure the safe and proper operation of MEWP, including checking that the MEWP is functioning and properly maintained. The frequency and type of maintenance and inspections of MEWP will depend on its usage, environmental conditions and the nature of operations.

Fig 1: a boomlift

Pre-Use Checks

Before work commences, a visual and functional routine checks should be conducted on the MEWP, including checking for:

lubrication and hydraulic oil levels

leakages

structural damages

malfunction of controls and safety devices

other functionality checks

Servicing

Besides the routine pre-use checks, the MEWP must be serviced at stipulated timeframes, such as statutory inspection at least once in 6 months, or in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. A preventive maintenance programme has to be devised by the user or owner based on his risk assessment and previous inspection/maintenance results. All inspections must be recorded and retained for inspection when the need arises.

Further Information

1. British Standards BS 8460:2005: Safe use of Mobile Elevated Work Platform.

2. British Standards BS EN 280:2001:2009: Design calculations – Stability criteria – Construction Safety – Examinations and tests

3. Statement of best practices of general training and familiarisation for aerial work platform equipment. Click HERE.

4. Safe Use of Mobile Elevated Work Platform. Click HERE.

5. The selection and management of Mobile Elevated Work Platform. Click HERE.

For more infor, please visit http://www.wshc.gov.sg

Lessons Learnt Case Report (LLCR) – Suffocation from Air-Fed Helmet - WSH Bulletin & WSH Cou

2010-06-18T09:22:00.001+08:00

17 Jun 2010

Incident

In this incident, a technician was deployed to carry out surface preparation work, including bead-blasting, for aircraft components. Less than an hour after he had started work in a bead-blasting chamber, he was found lying unconscious on the floor. He was in his usual protective clothing, and was wearing his air-fed helmet with the air supply still turned on. He was sent to hospital but died due to suffocation from oxygen deficiency.

Summary of Findings

Investigations revealed that some workers from another unit did not follow their operating instructions. Instead of using nitrogen gas for the control system of an autoclave for their work, they used the common compressed air supply. This caused a back-flow of higher pressured nitrogen gas into the air supply for the technician, reducing the supply of oxygen and leading to his suffocation.

For more details on safety lapses in the incident and recommendations to prevent similar accidents from happening, click Here for the Lessons Learnt Case Report.

Please visit https://www.wshc.sg/wps/portal/bulletinview?action=viewBulletin&bulletinID=BU2010060114956 for more info.

Worker Crushed by Toppled Pipe - WSH Bulletin & WSH Council

2010-06-09T09:18:00.000+08:00

9 Jun 2010

Incident

In this incident, a worker was using a hand held power tool to grind/polish a welded joint on Pipe A within a pipe bridge. He was working in a 300mm gap between Pipe A and Pipe B, when Pipe B suddenly rolled towards Pipe A. The toppled Pipe B crushed and killed the worker.

Both pipes were about 300mm in diameter and weighed several tonnes. Each pipe was welded with supporting shoes at interval spacing of about 6m and rested on supporting I-beams. At various shoe locations on Pipe B, two brackets were welded to the I-beam to hold the shoe in place, and restrict the lateral movement of the pipe. The shoes were not permanently fixed to the I-beams to allow for longitudinal movements due to thermal expansion and contraction. At some of the shoe locations, timber blocks were also placed between the lateral restraining brackets. As the height of the timber blocks exceeded the height of the brackets, the pipe shoes were resting on the timber blocks and not secured by the brackets.

Figure 1. Pipe B toppled and crushed the worker.

Recommendations*

1. Conduct risk assessment: Risk assessment must be carried out before starting any work. Through risk assessment, employers and employees can identify potential hazards and take appropriate actions to eliminate or reduce the risks involved. Control measures and safe work procedures must be established, communicated and implemented to ensure the safety and health of the employees involved. Risk assessment should also cover non-routine or emergency situations, so that measures can be planned for such situations. Potential hazards for this incident include:

- Unstable placement of pipes on timber blocks.
- Unsecured pipe that is not braced against toppling.

2. Implement Safety and Health Management System: It is important for the Management to put in place an effective workplace safety and health management programme to guide the establishment of a safety management system and proper work procedures. Some of the elements in a WSH Management Programme include:

- Risk management - As explained, proper risk assessment should be conducted to identify hazards and mitigate risks

- Safe work procedures - Establish safe work procedures for carrying out the task safely. Ensure proper supervision and implementation of the safe work procedures for the task. Supervisors should provide direct and close supervision of the tasks performed by the workers under their charge

- Safety training – All workers should be adequately trained in order for them to perform their work competently. They should also be properly briefed so that they are aware of the safety and health issues.

- Communication of safety and health issues – The safety management plans and work procedures should be clearly communicated to all supervisors and workers (e.g. at the daily toolbox meetings)

2. Secure pipes: Ensure that safety measures are in place. Pipes should be adequately secured, or restrained from uncontrolled movement, e.g. with the use of chain blocks before the start of any work.

3. Ensure effective communication channels: The occupier should put in place a good and effective communication system. This is to ensure that the different contractors are regularly updated and aware of the progress of on-going works and safety issues around the worksite, e.g. checking whether the adjacent pipes have been fully installed before commencing grinding / polishing work.

Further Information

1. Workplace Safety and Health Act, please click here.
2. Workplace Safety and Health (General Provisions) Regulations, please click here. 3. Workplace Safety and Health (Risk Management) Regulations, please click here.
4. Workplace Safety and Health (Safety and Health Management System and Auditing) Regulations 2009
5. SS 506 : Part 1 : 2004 - Occupational safety and health (OHS) management system – Specification

*Please note that the information provided is not exhaustive and for the benefit of enhancing workplace safety and health so that a similar recurrence may be prevented. The information provided is not to be construed as implying any liability to any party nor should it be taken to encapsulate all the responsibilities and obligations of the reader of WSH Alert under the law.

Please visit https://www.wshc.sg/wps/portal/bulletinview?action=viewBulletin&bulletinID=BU2010060114956 for more info.

Worker killed by Toppled Formwork - WSH Bulletin & WSH Council

2010-06-04T09:07:00.001+08:00

4 Jun 2010

Incident

On the day of the incident, a group of workers was deployed to carry out formwork installation. The formwork was supported by out-riggers and timber props. When a section of the formwork was lifted away, the remaining formwork collapsed and toppled onto a worker. He subsequently died from his injuries.

Recommendations*

1. Conduct risk assessment: Prior to the commencement of work, a risk assessment should be carried out to determine the potential hazards and risks that might arise during the installation of formwork. Control measures and safe work procedures must be established to mitigate the risks, and be communicated and implemented to ensure the safety and health of the workers involved.

2. Secure formwork: The Workplace Safety and Health (Construction) Regulations requires that measures to be taken to ensure the stability of any formwork structure or parts of the formwork structure. All formwork components should be properly tied, footed, braced and supported to prevent toppling whether it is during erection or when it is not in use. Where original out-riggers provided by manufacturers as part of its design is used for bracing of formwork, such props or shores shall not be replaced with other forms of support not designed for or provided by the manufacturer.

3. Cordon off work area: Workers who are not directly involved in the formwork installation should be advised to keep away from the vicinity while formwork structures are being erected, or where there are placement of concrete or lifting of formwork sections. Appropriate measures such as the erection of proper barricades and warning signs, and briefing of workers should be carried out prior to the commencement of work. Workers should also stay away from the lifting zone and from any objects that are planned to be lifted.

4. Ensure supervision: A formwork supervisor should be present to oversee the proper erection of the formwork at site. Where an unsafe condition is discovered by the supervisor, the occupier should be notified immediately to rectify the situation.

Further Information

1. Workplace Safety and Health Act
2. Workplace Safety and Health (Risk Management) Regulations 2006
3. Workplace Safety and Health (Construction) Regulations
4. Singapore Standard CP 23: 2000 Code of Practice for Formwork

* Please note that the information provided is intended to enhance workplace safety and health so that a similar recurrence may be prevented, and is not exhaustive. The information provided should not to be construed as implying any liability to any party nor should it be taken to encapsulate all the responsibilities and obligations of the reader of WSH Alert under the law.

Please visit https://www.wshc.sg/wps/portal/bulletinview?action=viewBulletin&bulletinID=BU2010060114956 for more details

Assessment of heat stress level & Incident cost calculator - WSH Bulletin & WSH Council

2010-06-02T09:04:00.000+08:00

2 Jun 2010

Some info to share...

Assessment of Heat Stress Levels
Workers who are exposed to extreme heat or work in hot environments may be at risk of heat stress. If not properly managed, heat stress can result in heat disorders such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, or heat cramps. The symptoms and treatment of heat disorders and the preventive steps to minimise their occurrences were described in an earlier WSH Bulletin.
To effectively manage heat stress, it is important for employers to determine the level of thermal stresses that workers are exposed to. This Bulletin provides detailed information on the assessment of thermal stresses associated with work in a hot environment using the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature Index.

Did you know...?

Incident Cost Calculator
You can use the Incident Cost Calculator to understand the true cost arising from a workplace incident. By fillling in the various fields, you will be presented with an estimate of the direct costs and indirect costs of injuries and incidents. For help on using the ICC, please refer to the user guide here.

Worker Crushed by Steel Frame Structure - WSH Bulletin & WSH Council

2010-06-01T09:00:00.001+08:00

1 Jun 2010

Incident

A worker was killed when a steel frame structure weighing more than 250kg toppled and crushed him. The worker was reportedly carrying out welding works on the steel frame structure made with square hollow sections when the incident happened. To facilitate welding works, the worker, together with 3 other workers, manually tilted the frame structure to reposition it on its side. As they were doing so, the frame slipped, toppled and struck the worker. The other 3 workers were unhurt.

Recommendations*

1. Conduct risk assessment: Prior to the start of work, conduct a proper risk assessment to identify all potential hazards and the risks involved. Appropriate action must be taken to eliminate the hazards or to mitigate the risks. Some of the hazards relevant to this incident include:

Manual manoeuvring and handling of unsupported heavy structure
Unsafe positioning of workers while manoeuvring the structure
Castor wheels of the structure not equipped with effective locking devices, or the locking devices not properly engaged while work is being carried out.

2. Establish safe work procedures: Appropriate control measures and safe work procedures for welding operations, taking into consideration any manual manoeuvring of the structure, must be established, communicated and implemented to ensure the safety and health of the workers involved. As far as is reasonably practical, eliminate the need for workers to manually handle or re-position heavy objects (e.g. employ the use of proper lifting equipment).

3. Proper lifting and supporting system: Implement a proper system to lift, support and maneuver heavy object through the use of appropriate equipment such as chain block with correct load rating or crane to prevent it from collapsing. Metal forks can also be used to prop up structures, and prevent them from toppling during manual positioning operations (see figures 1 and 2 below).

Figure 1: Use of metal fork to prop up metal structures

Figure 2: Metal fork

4. Safe positioning of workers: Workers should position themselves such that they can maintain a firm grip of the object when it is being manoeuvred. This will allow the workers to have continued control and stability when tilting the object during the lowering process. They should also not stand in the path in which the object is being maneuvered, to prevent the object from collapsing onto them.

5. Adequate training and supervision: Workers must be adequately supervised to ensure that assigned tasks are carried out in a safe manner. The responsibilities of supervisors include regular inspections to identify and manage potential hazards at the worksite. For example, for the incident described above, supervisor should ensure that the castor wheels were equipped with the appropriate locking devices and that they are properly engaged prior to moving the structure. The supervisor should also instruct the workers on safe manoeuvring technique for structures with castor wheels. Adequate training of workers is also required to ensure that they can carry out the work properly and safely.

Further Information

1. Workplace Safety and Health Act (Chapter 354A)2. Workplace Safety and Health (General Provisions) Regulations 3. Workplace Safety and Health (Risk Management) Regulations 4. Singapore Standard CP 92: 2002 – Code of Practice for Manual Handling 5. Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety – Pick Up Tips on How to Lift Safely, please HERE.

* Please note that the information provided is intended to enhance workplace safety and health so that a similar recurrence may be prevented, and is not exhaustive. The information provided should not to be construed as implying any liability to any party nor should it be taken to encapsulate all the responsibilities and obligations of the reader of WSH Alert under the law.

For more info, please visit WSH Alert – Worker Crushed by Steel Frame Structure

Please visit https://www.wshc.sg/wps/portal/bulletinview?action=viewBulletin&bulletinID=BU2010060114956 for more info.

Worker Fell from Mezzanine Floor - WSH Bulletin & WSH COuncil

2010-05-26T08:56:00.000+08:00

26 May 2010

Incident

In this incident, a worker was found dead on the ground beside the staircase of a factory. He was alone in the premises when the incident happened. A stool was found at the mid landing of the staircase. It is suspected that the worker might have tried to access a resting area on the mezzanine floor by using the stool to climb over the handrail of the staircase. He could then have fallen from the open side of the unbarricaded mezzanine floor and landed on the ground 3m below.

Recommendations*

1. Provide safe means of access or egress: The Workplace and Safety Health Act (WSHA) stipulates that the occupier has to take reasonably practicable measures to ensure that the workplace and all means of access to or egress from the workplace are safe. For this incident, there was no safe and proper access to the mezzanine floor, except by climbing over the staircase.

2. Conduct risk assessment: Proper risk assessments should be conducted to identify all potential hazards and risks. Appropriate actions must be taken to eliminate the hazards or to mitigate the risks. Some of the hazards relevant to this case include:
a. Lack of proper and safe means of access to the resting area;b. Lack of proper and safe means of access to the stored materials (e.g. the veneer and wooden planks) at the mezzanine floor beside the resting area;c. Lack of proper handhold and barricade at the mezzanine level; and d. Improper storage of materials which could lead to them toppling.

3. Provide and maintain safe arrangements and facilities: Employers are also required under the WSHA to take reasonably practicable measures to protect the safety and health of employees. This includes maintaining the facilities and providing safe arrangements to ensure their welfare at work. In this incident, such measures could include:
a. Ensuring that the workers’ resting areas are adequate, safe and without risk (e.g. properly barricaded); and b. Ensuring that workers are not exposed to hazards from the storage of materials beside the resting area.

4. Establish safe work procedures: Appropriate control measures and safe work procedures, such as on accessing and moving materials from the storage area, must be properly established, communicated and implemented to ensure the safety and health of the workers involved.

5. Proper storage of goods: All goods, articles and substances in a workplace should be properly stored, stack or placed:
a. in such as manner as not to obstruct the use of passageways;

b. on a firm foundation not liable to settle;

c. in such manner as not to overload the foundation or floors;

d. using appropriate supporting structures to ensure their stability; and

e. not against a wall or partition unless they are of sufficient strength to withstand the pressure.
Bound materials should also be placed on racks, and secured by stacking, blocking, or interlocking to prevent them from sliding, falling, or collapsing.

Further Information

1. Workplace Safety and Health Act (Chapter 354A)2. Workplace Safety and Health (General Provisions) Regulations 3. Workplace Safety and Health (Risk Management) Regulations 4. OSHA’s guide on Materials Handling and Storing, please click HERE.

* Please note that the information provided is intended to enhance workplace safety and health so that a similar recurrence may be prevented, and is not exhaustive. The information provided should not to be construed as implying any liability to any party nor should it be taken to encapsulate all the responsibilities and obligations of the reader of WSH Alert under the law.

For more infor, please visit https://www.wshc.sg/wps/portal/bulletinview?action=viewBulletin&bulletinID=BU2010052614954

Worker Fell while Plastering External Wall of Air Conditioning Ledge - WSH Bulletin & WSH Council

2010-05-18T08:49:00.000+08:00

18 May 2010

Incident

In this incident, a worker was found dead on the ground beside a high rise building under construction. The worker was found with a restraint belt strapped around his waist.

Before the incident, the worker was carrying out plastering work on the external wall of an air conditioning ledge on the 9th floor of the building. At the other floors, the open sides of the air conditioning ledges were guarded with cable barricades. However on the 9th floor, where the deceased worker was working, no barricade was present.

Recommendations*

1. Conduct risk assessment: A risk assessment must be carried out before starting any work. Through the risk assessment, employers and workers can identify potential hazards and take appropriate actions to eliminate the hazards or reduce the risks involved. Control measures and safe work procedures must be established, communicated and implemented to ensure the safety and health of the workers involved. For this case, the relevant control measures include planning for safe access to the work area and preventing workers from falling while working on the air conditioning ledge.

2. Implement workplace safety and health management programme: Management must put in place an effective workplace safety and health management programme. Through this, operations within the organisation would be guided through a safety policy, establishment of a safety management system and proper work procedures. Effective implementation of established WSH procedures and systems can be done with proper supervision, effective communication and training to ensure that workers adhere to established procedures.

3. Fall prevention / protection: Work at height must be made safe through fall prevention or protection measures. Examples include installing guard rails that prevent persons from falling over open sides, as well as travel restraint, fall arrest or engineered systems with anchorage points as explained below:

Travel restraint: A travel restraint system prevents the worker from falling by restricting his movement into hazardous areas, such as open sides. For such a system, a restraint belt or a full body harness is suitable once anchored securely.

Fall Arrest: An individual fall arrest system protects the worker by stopping his fall so that he does not strike the ground. A full body harness with a self-retracting lifeline or a shock absorber and a lanyard are suitable for fall arrest once anchored securely.

Engineered Systems: Engineered systems such as horizontal lifelines should be installed according to the design by the professional engineer. Deviating from the design can result in the system not functioning as it rightfully should and can result in potentially unsafe conditions for workers.

Further Information

1. Workplace Safety and Health Act (Chapter 354A), please click here

2. Workplace Safety and Health (General Provisions) Regulations, please click here

3. Workplace Safety and Health (Risk Management) Regulations

4. Workplace Safety and Health (Construction) Regulations

5. Code of Practice for Working Safely at Height

* Please note that the information provided is not exhaustive and for the benefit of enhancing workplace safety and health so that a similar recurrence may be prevented. The information provided is not to be construed as implying any liability to any party nor should it be taken to encapsulate all the responsibilities and obligations of the reader of WSH Alert under the law.

Please visit https://www.wshc.sg/wps/portal/bulletinview?action=viewBulletin&bulletinID=BU2010051814948 for more details

Safety on Lifting Operations - WSH Bulletin

2010-05-10T17:20:00.001+08:00

10 May 2010

Ensuring Safe Lifting Operations

Lifting Operations can be Dangerous

Lifting activities are an essential part of operations at many worksites. However, lifting operations can be potentially dangerous and are considered high-risk activities. The unsafe and improper use of lifting equipment had resulted in fatalities, serious injuries, and dangerous occurrences. Crane-related incidents such as crane collapse can have severe outcomes, including damage to surrounding properties, and serious injuries to workers and the public.

Ensuring Safe Lifting Operations

To ensure safe operations, thorough risk assessment and careful planning are required prior to commencement of work. A proper lifting plan should be developed for all lifting operations, which should include (i) a proper risk assessment process, (ii) a permit-to-work system, (iii) the selection of safe and proper equipment, (iv) an appreciation of the actual ground conditions and (v) the deployment of qualified and competent personnel.

The followings are some of the safety precautions which should be exercised at all times for lifting operations:

Site lifting machines such as cranes on firm, stable and level ground (see Figure 1) to ensure stability during lifting operations.

Do not overload the lifting appliance, lifting gear and lifting machines

Ascertain the weight of the load before lifting

Develop specific risk assessment and method statement for tandem lifting operations, slope, or travelling with suspended loads

Check that the lifting hook’s safety latch is functioning

Inspect all lifting gears such as shackle, sling and hook for defects before use

Prominently display all relevant test certificates of the lifting equipment and permit to lift

Fig1. Photograph courtesy of Gammon Pte. Limited

Firm and level ground for sitting of crane. The outriggers are fully extended and on proper pads.

Further Information

1. WSH (General Provisions) Regulations 2006, please click here.

2. WSH (Construction) Regulations 2007, please click here.

3. Factories (Operations of Cranes) Regulations, please click here.

4. SS536: 2008 Code of Practice for the Safe Use of Mobile Cranes

5. CP 62: 1995 Code of Practice for Safe Use of Tower Cranes

6. CP 63: 1996 Code of Practice for the Lifting of Persons in Work Platforms Suspended from Cranes

7. Technical Advisory for Safe Operation of Lifting Equipment, please click here.

Five Parties Convicted for Failing to Ensure Workplace Safety - WSH Bulletin

2010-04-28T09:48:00.001+08:00

27 Apr 2010

Five Parties Convicted for Failing to Ensure Workplace Safety

Two companies from the marine industry and three of their employees were convicted on 1 April 2010 for failing to ensure workplace safety. The convicted parties were fined a total of $485,000.

One of the companies was responsible for the death of three workers and injuries sustained by 10 others in two separate incidents in 2008. In the first incident, the company was engaged to install hydraulic pipes on a vessel. A fire broke out on the vessel and injured four workers. It was found that the project manager had allowed compressed oxygen to be used to test the pipes. The pipes' rusty and rough interior generated heat when the pressurised oxygen passed through them. The heat, combined with the oxygen, rust and lubricating oil found in the vicinity, led to the explosion.

In the second incident, two months later, a flash fire broke out on a vessel during spray painting works at the company's premises. The accident left 3 workers dead and six others injured. Investigations found that the company did not effectively ventilate the tanks to ensure that flammable vapours generated from the spray painting works did not build up. The ship repair manager had also approved the permit-to-work without ensuring the implementation of all safety measures, e.g. preventing workers from bringing in unsafe torchlights, which could have been the ignition source.

The second company convicted was responsible for an accident on board a ship that claimed two lives, and injured another. The workers were assigned to clean a tank and they entered it even though it contained a high concentration of toxic Hydrogen Sulphide gas. Investigations revealed that the company had failed to provide them with safety equipment such as breathing devices and personal gas monitors. One of the supervisors had also told the workers to enter the tank even though it was dangerous to do so.

Chairman of the Workplace Safety and Health Council, Mr Lee Tzu Yang said the deaths and injuries in the cases are a "sombre reminder" of the workers affected by poor safety standards and a disregard for safety rules. "Each of the five workers who died had unfulfilled dreams and families who will miss them everyday. Industry players must constantly remind ourselves that we have a responsibility to ensure the safety of our workers. At no time should anyone disregard any safety measures so as to take an easier route to complete a job. In each of these cases, someone had ignored important safety measures," he said. On behalf of the WSH Council, he urged all stakeholders to think about the impact of one's actions and to always keep safety foremost on their minds.

Please click HERE for the article.

Working in Hot Environment - WSH Bulletin

2010-04-22T09:52:00.000+08:00

22 Apr 2010

Working in Hot Environment

Workers who are exposed to extreme heat or work in hot environment may be at risk of heat stress. Heat stress can result in heat disorders such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, or heat cramps. As such, it is important for employers to be able to identify symptoms of heat disorders, and determine the level of thermal stresses that workers are exposed to.

This Bulletin provides information on managing heat disorders, and the assessment of thermal stresses associated with work in a hot environment.

Drop in Workplace Injuries & Occupational Diseases - WSH Bulletin

2010-03-23T08:23:00.002+08:00

22 Mar 2010

2009 WSH Statistics Report Show Overall Drop in Workplace Injuries and Occupational Diseases

The WSH Council and MOM have announced the 2009 WSH Statistics Report which shows a drop in occupational diseases and workplace injuries reported across the board for 2009. The number of occupational diseases fell by over 45% and the total number of work injuries dropped by 2.1%. This is the first drop in overall work injuries reported since 2006.

The number of fatalities saw a 4.5% increase, and the fatality rate increased from 2.8 deaths per 100,000 persons to 2.9 in 2009. This is the first increase since 2005 and underscores the need to strengthen efforts on preventing workplace fatalities. There was also a 3.3% increase in actual man-days lost due to serious incidents. The traditional sectors like construction and marine sectors accounted for most of the fatalities (63%) in 2009 though new sectors such as hotel and landscape also saw 10 fatalities, up from zero in 2008.

WSH Council Chairman Lee Tzu Yang highlighted that while overall number of work injuries are down, the Council is concerned about the increase in work fatalities. He added that the Council will pay attention to both higher hazard sectors such as construction and marine, as well as less familiar sectors such as hotels and other service activities. As WSH and productivity are closely intertwined, having safer practices and outcomes will also contribute to productivity gains. As such, the WSH Council urged the industry to take a relook at their WSH practices and keep workers safe at work, while driving productivity.

MOM’s Commissioner for WSH Ho Siong Hin added that MOM will focus enforcement checks in areas of concern and urged both employers and employees to do their part to ensure workplace safety.

For the media release and the WSH Report 2009, please click HERE.

Kay Lim Construction ordered to stop work after crane accident - CNA

2010-03-18T16:04:00.001+08:00

17 Mar 2010

SINGAPORE : The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has ordered Kay Lim Construction to stop work at the site where a crane accident killed one worker and injured three others on Wednesday evening.

The ministry's Occupational Safety and Health Division responded immediately to the crane incident at the construction worksite in Punggol Central.

Preliminary investigations showed that five workers were dismantling a tower crane when the boom of the crane gave way and fell to the ground.

One worker was killed. The 32-year-old Malaysian was extricated by SCDF officers and was pronounced dead by paramedics at 6.05pm.

Three other foreign workers - a Thai, a Chinese and a Bangladeshi - were injured and were sent to Changi General Hospital for observation.

- CNA/al

WSH Alert – 2 Workers Killed in a Chemical Explosion - WSH Bulletin

2010-03-09T08:39:00.000+08:00

8 Mar 2010

Incident

On 23 Jan 2010, an explosion caused the roof of an atmospheric Diethylene Glycol (DEG) storage tank to be blown off. Two workers who were installing nitrogen pipelines on the tank roof at the time of the accident were killed. Investigation is still in progress.

Figure 1: The DEG storage tank, which is about 6m in diameter and 20m high.

Figure 2: Roof of the tank that was blown off and landed on a field outside the premises.

Recommendations

1. Conduct risk assessment: Prior to the start of work, a risk assessment should be carried out to determine the potential hazards and risks that might arise during the installation or replacement of a piping system. DEG has a flash point of 138 ºC (closed cup) and 143 ºC (open cup). Control measures and safe work procedures must be established to mitigate the risks, and be communicated and implemented to ensure the safety and health of the workers involved. Some of the hazards relevant to this incident include:

a) Excessive built-up of pressure in storage tank due to faulty breather valves
b) Hazards associated with hot work
c) Falls from height while working on top of the tank

2. Ensure proper supervision: It is important to ensure that any pipe replacement works are carried out under the close supervision of a competent person with adequate knowledge of the storage system, properties of the substances used and their associated dangers.

3. Establish safe work procedures: Safe work procedures must be appropriately documented to enable workers to identify the valves correctly, and to assist them on the proper steps to operate the different valves safely such that valves will not be opened or closed erroneously.

4. Inspect vessels / pipes regularly: Under the Workplace Safety and Health (General Provisions) Regulations, it is the duty of the owner of a pressure vessel or pipes that contain or convey hazardous substances to ensure that they are properly inspected before use. Thus it is important to inspect the valves, piping systems and storage tanks regularly to ensure that they are in good condition. Faulty valves must be reported to the supervisor who will assess if it is safe to continue with the work.

5. Check storage pressure: Workers are allowed to work on top of a storage tank only if the pressure inside the tank is known and it is safe for them to do so. Appropriate pressure gauges should be installed at strategic locations to indicate the pressure within. Whenever practicable, pressurised tanks should be purged to safe atmospheric pressure level before works are carried out at the top of the tank.

Further Information

1. Singapore Standard SS 532: 2007 Code of Practice for the Storage of Flammable Liquids
2. Singapore Standard SS 586 – 3 : 2008 - Specification for hazard communication for hazardous chemicals and dangerous goods - Preparation of safety data sheets (SDS)
3. Workplace Safety and Health (General Provisions) Regulations
4. Ministry of Manpower’s Risk Assessment Guidelines. Click HERE.
5. Ministry of Manpower’s guidelines on Prevention and Control of Chemical Hazards. Click HERE.
6. WSH Council’s Technical Advisory for Flammable Hazardous Substances. Click HERE.

Guidance for Safety and Health Management System - WSH Bulletin

2010-03-05T08:44:00.001+08:00

4 Mar 2010

The new Workplace Safety and Health (Safety and Health Management System and Auditing) Regulations has taken effect on 1 March 2010. This set of new Regulations aims to enhance the effective implementation of Safety and Health Management Systems (SHMS) at workplaces by strengthening the auditing of such systems.

The WSH (Safety & Health Management System and Auditing) Regulations requires the SHMS to be implemented in accordance with any Singapore Standard relating to SHMSs or such other standards, codes of practice or guidance issued or approved by the Workplace Safety and Health Council. In view of this, the Workplace Safety and Health Council has identified relevant standards, codes of practice and guidance materials relating to SHMS as reference for the industries. These references would provide practical assistance in the development, implementation, audit and review of the SHMS. The references include, but are not limited to, the following:

SS 506: Part 1: 2009
Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Management Systems - Part 1: Requirements
SS 506: Part 2: 2009
Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Management Systems - Part 2: Guidelines for the Implementation of SS 506: Part 1: 2009
SS 506: Part 3: 2006
Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Management System - Part 3: Requirements for the Chemical Industry
CP 79: 1999
Code of Practice for Safety Management System for Construction Worksites

Hardcopies of the SS-CPs are available at the WSH Council office for public inspection. Alternatively, they can be purchased from SPRING’s appointed sales vendor – Toppan Leefung Pte Ltd (previously known as SNP Corporation Pte Ltd)

Click HERE for Guidelines on the Implementation of Safety Management System for the Metalworking Industry

Click HERE for Workplace Safety & Health Manual for Marine Industries

You may refer HERE for some frequently-asked-questions (FAQs) related to SHMS.

Company and Director Fined $70,000 for Fatal Accident - WSH Bulletin

2010-03-03T08:49:00.000+08:00

2 Mar 2010

A company and its director were convicted under the Workplace Safety and Health Act (Cap. 354A), and fined a total of S$70,000. One of the company's worker suffered injuries in a flash fire on 20 May 2008 and died.

The deceased worker started work with the company about two weeks before the incident. He was performing gas cutting works using an Oxy-Acetylene gas cutting torch in the factory. At the same area, drums were being pressed for disposal. During the cutting works, a flash fire broke out. The worker suffered extensive burns, and died in the hospital 10 days later.

Investigations found leaks at the valves of the oxygen and acetylene cylinders of the torch, as well as between the connection of the hose and gas torch. The company failed to maintain the hot works equipment and conduct adequate checks before allowing workers to use them.

The company was found to have failed in implementing adequate safety measures in the use of an Oxy-Acetylene gas cutting torch and the pressing of drums while the director was found to have failed to exercise due diligence in ensuring that there were adequate safety measures for the work.

The news is taken from Channel News Asia HERE.

Fact Sheet - Ammonia in Refrigeration System & Lipid disorders - WSH Bulletin

2010-02-24T08:27:00.001+08:00

23 Feb 2010

Ammonia is commonly used as a commercial refrigerant in large industrial refrigerators. Refrigeration grade ammonia is 99.98% pure. In refrigeration system, ammonia is liquefied under pressure.

Exposure to ammonia could lead to burning of the nose, throat and respiratory tract, skin or eye irritation, and in severe cases, blindness and death, Contact with liquefied ammonia could also lead to fostbite injury and corrosive burns.

Ammonia leaks can occur from corroded pipes, failure of seals and valves, and blockages. These could arise due to lack of safety awareness and procedures, lack of management focus on safety, and poor maintenance regime.

Click here for the fact sheet providing recommendations on the prevention of ammonia leaks, and on working safely with ammonia .

Lipid disorders

Lipid disorders are a group of medical conditions which refer to excessive levels of fatty substances in the bloodstream. These fatty substances include cholesterol and triglycerides. An excess of ‘bad’ cholesterol and triglycerides increases your risk of heart disease and stroke. For more information on management of lipid disorders, please click here .

Two men die after industrial accident on Jurong Island - CNA/ms

2010-01-25T11:44:00.001+08:00

24 Jan 2010

Two men die after industrial accident on Jurong Island

SINGAPORE : Two men have died after an industrial accident at Chemicals Specialities on Jurong Island on Saturday.

The incident happened at about 11am.

Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) personnel said the roof of a cylindrical tank had blown off as a result of the accident.

The cylindrical tank contained chemicals used in the manufacturing of brake fluids.

The Manpower Ministry said its preliminary findings reveal that the Malaysian workers were installing piping to various tanks when one of the tanks exploded.

The Ministry has instructed Chemical Specialties to stop all installation works on the plant.

Investigations by the Manpower Ministry and SCDF are ongoing. — CNA/ms

Safety Starts With Me Competition 2010 & Fire Safety Seminar - WSH Bulletin

2010-01-19T08:35:00.001+08:00

18 Jan 2010

Safety Starts With Me Competition 2010

The Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Council in collaboration with the Ministry of Manpower has launched the Safety Starts With Me Competition 2010. Through this competition we aim to spread the awareness of workplace safety and health issues to everyone as well as promote the 'Safety Starts With Me' theme. The tagline for this year is Work safety. Our lives. Our responsibility.

Paint it. Film it. Snap it. Tell us what workplace safety means to you and take part in WSH Council’s second workplace safety and health competition.

The competition ends on 31 March 2010. For details, you can visit our website HERE.

Exciting Cash Prizes

Cash prizes of up to $5000 will be awarded to winning entries. The winning entries will also be showcased during the National Workplace Safety and Health Campaign from April to July 2010.

NSCS – Seminar on “Fire Safety and Fire Hazards in Industries”

The National Safety Council of Singapore (NSCS) will be organising a half day seminar on “Fire Safety and Fire Hazards in Industries”. Case studies of fire/explosion incidents in the workplace will be shared at the seminar. Participants will also learn about Fire Risk Assessment, proper usage of fire extinguisher, importance of fire drills and escape plan, and fire alarm systems and their maintenance. The seminar details are as follows:

Date: 19 January 2010 (Tuesday)
Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Venue: NSCS Training Room, 315 Outram Road, #10-09A Tan Boon Liat Building, Singapore 169074
Points awarded: 4 SDU points, 3 SCDF CPD points

NSCS also has a series of seminars planned for the year 2010. Please click HERE for more information.

Lifting Supervisor Jailed Four Weeks for Fatal Accident - WSH Bulletin

2010-01-18T09:10:00.000+08:00

Some lessons which we can learn from...

15 Jan 2010

On 14 January 2010, a site supervisor was jailed 4 weeks for performing a reckless act that resulted in the death of one worker in a lifting accident on 12 October 2007.

The site supervisor was directly in charge of 20 workers who were involved in demolition and structural works. At the time of the accident, he instructed 2 other workers, including the deceased, to help in the lifting of a timber formwork using a mobile crane. During the lifting, the wire rope used in the lifting gave way. The formwork fell about 9 metres and hit one of the workers.

Investigations found that the trained lifting supervisor failed to ensure that the two workers involved were trained riggers and were properly briefed to perform the lifting activity. He also endangered the workers’ safety by exposing them to falling object hazard during the lifting activity.

The Commissioner for Workplace Safety and Health, Ho Siong Hin, said that the 4-week jail term passed by the Court underscores the gravity of the offence and the importance for supervisors to uphold workplace safety. The accident could have been prevented had the supervisor ensured that the necessary safety precautions were in place.

The News taken from HERE.

Safe Handling of Compressed Gas Cylinders - WSH Bulletin

2010-01-13T08:44:00.004+08:00

12 Jan 2010

Fact Sheet - Safe Handling of Compressed Gas Cylinders

Compressed gas cylinders are commonly used in the different industries for a variety of operations. These cylinders are heavy, normally weighing about 80 kilograms each. They are specifically designed to contain gases, such as Oxygen, Nitrogen, Argon, Helium, Carbon Dioxide and Hydrogen. These gases are compressed and stored under high pressure. The gas is released through a valve which regulates its discharge.

Compressed gas cylinders are dangerous because:

• They may contain gas that may be toxic, asphyxiating or flammable. The gas is also stored under high pressure.
• They are usually heavy and can cause injury, such as sprains and strains, if not well handled.

• If the cylinders are tipped, dropped, heated or knocked, they may rupture and explode, sending sharp metal pieces, like shrapnel, blasting through the area.

• The release of pressure from a gas leakage could generate a huge amount of force. It may also propel the cylinder, leading to injuries;

Click here for the fact sheet providing recommendations on the safe handling of compressed gas cylinders.

Unsafe Roof Work Resulted in Fatality - WSH Bulletin

2010-01-06T08:55:00.000+08:00

4 Jan 2010

In recent years, a significant number of workers have been killed while working on roofs. Some of these accidents involved workers stepping on and falling through fragile roofs.

A recent accident has further contributed to this number. Unsafe unloading of glass panels on a roof caused the glass panels to topple onto two workers. One was injured while the other succumbed to his injuries. Please click HERE to read the full article.

WSH Alert – Worker Falling from Height during Lifting Process - WSH Bulletin

2009-12-18T14:21:00.002+08:00

18 Dec 2009

A construction worker died after falling off a building under construction while erecting a formwork.

On the incident night, at around 9.40pm, the worker was stationed at the fourth level of a building under construction. An inner formwork was lifted to the same floor by a crawler crane and bolted to the floor slab. The worker then climbed onto the platform of the formwork to remove the 2 attachments for lifting the formwork. After removing them, the worker re-attached the lifting attachments onto the crane slings and the signalman gave the go-ahead for the crane to hoist the slings away.

However, one of the lifting attachments caught the rebar cage beside the formwork. The rebar cage was pulled out of its position by the crane and toppled 20m to the ground below. The worker who had earlier anchored his safety harness to the rebar cage fell together with it.

Recommendations*

For crane operators:

1. Prevent Entanglement of Load Line: Crane operators need to be alert throughout the entire lifting process. Before moving the crane’s load line, the crane operator must ensure that there is no entanglement of load line or slings with objects nearby. If the operator does not have a clear view of the lifting operations, he should adhere closely to the instructions of the signalman. In this incident, the slings (with the attachments) should have been raised sufficiently above the height of the rebar cage before slewing them over the cage.

2. Stop Slewing if movement is not smooth: The crane operator should avoid sudden movements of the load line at high speed. Start any lifting process slowly so that any abnormalities can be detected. If the operator feels abnormal resistance to the crane’s movement, he should halt the process and check (with the aid of the signalman) for possible entanglement.

For lifting crew:

3. Lifting Signalman: Lifting signalman must stay alert throughout the lifting operation, particularly during slewing of the load line. He must halt the lifting process immediately in the event of a load line entanglement.

4. Effective Communication: A system must be in place to ensure effective communication between lifting personnel, particularly between the operator and signalman. This could be done through:
• Hand signals if the signalman is in clear sight of the crane operator
• Suitable communication equipment such as walkie talkies. It is important that the operator and signalman can speak and understand a common language.

General recommendations:

5. Conduct Risk Assessment: Prior to the start of work, conduct an adequate risk assessment to identify all potential hazards and the risks involved. Appropriate control measures and safe work procedures must be established and implemented. For this case, some of the potential hazards include:

• Possible entanglement of load line with surrounding structures
• Poor visibility due to inadequate lighting
• Ineffective communications between signalman and crane operator

6. Safe Lifting Procedure: Companies should put in place procedures to mitigate the risk of load line getting entangled with the surrounding structures. These could include ensuring that:

• Lifting signalman have clear sight of the lifting process at all time
• Lifting signalman give clear instructions to crane operator
• There is sufficient lighting to ensure good visibility of the lifting process, especially if the work is carried out at night

7. Safe working at height: Companies involved in works carried out at height must implement appropriate fall protection measures for workers. When fall arrest systems are utilised, proper anchorage points or anchorage systems must be made available. In addition, if works are to be carried out at night, sufficient lighting must be provided.

Further Information

1) Factories (Operation of Cranes) Regulations

2) Singapore Standard CP 37: 2000 – Code of Practice for the Safe Use of Mobile Cranes

Launch of WSH Manual for the Marine Industries - WSH Bulletin

2009-12-10T08:38:00.000+08:00

9 Dec 2009

WSH Regulations require the occupier of a shipyard to implement and maintain an adequate safety and health management system to ensure the safety and health of every person in the shipyard. To help the Marine Industries, especially the small and medium sized shipyards, comply with the law and achieve good WSH standards, the WSHC (Marine Industries) Committee in collaboration with the Association of Singapore Marine Industries (ASMI), has published the WSH Manual for Marine Industries. The Manual lays out basic WSH principles, as well as provides guidance on good practices with regard to the implementation of safety management systems.

You can download the Manual from the WSHC website here.

Newly-Formed National Work at Height Safety Taskforce Releases Three-Pronged Plan to Prevent Falls At Work - WSH Bulletin

2009-12-10T08:34:00.001+08:00

2 Dec 2009

The National Work at Height (WAH) Safety Taskforce, formed by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Council, has announced a three-pronged plan to improve the safety of work conducted at heights across workplaces.

The Taskforce, led by Mr Wong Weng Sun, President and CEO, Sembcorp Marine Ltd, outlined several targets, including:

• Halving current WAH fatality and injury rates by 2013 and further reduction by 2018
• Implementing Fall Protection Plans in all construction worksites and shipyards by 2012 and at all workplaces by 2015.

Together with WSH Council and MOM, the National WAH Safety Taskforce has analysed the contributing factors for past WAH incidents, and published the findings in a Safety Analysis and Recommendation Report on Work at Height. The Report highlighted seven contributing factors to WAH incidents including the lack of safe work procedures, and inadequate fall prevention or protection systems. (Click here to read the Report) To address these factors, the National WAH Safety Taskforce made three key recommendations:

Recommendation 1 - Building strong capabilities

The Taskforce recommends the implemention of Fall Protection Plans to manage WAH at a systemic level. The Taskforce and the WSH Council have introduced a new Code of Practice (CP) for Working Safely at Height (more details below) and a new WAH Kit for supervisors and workers. The Taskforce will also develop national WAH competency standards.

Recommendation 2: Promoting the benefits of WAH safety

The Taskforce will collaborate with relevant industry associations and partners to reach out to a wider audience, and promote the adoption of best practices. The Taskforce will develop a new FALLPROTECT Certification/Recognition Scheme to certify the Fall Protection Plan of companies, and recognise their commitment to safety. The WSH Council will develop a dedicated webpage to provide a one-stop resource for WAH information.

Recommendation 3: Enhancing the Intervention Framework for WAH

The Taskforce will work with various industry associations to introduce an “industry self-assessment” element. It will provide feedback to MOM on the review of existing legislation on WAH safety. MOM will also be looking at ways to extend enforcement reach to more workplaces.

Click here to read the media release and Report.

Code of Practice on Working Safely at Height

The new Code of Practice (CP) for Working Safely at Height issued by WSH Council describes a variety of fall prevention measures and devices that reduce the risk of falling from height. The CP highlights the Fall Protection Plan (FPP), which provides a systematic approach to eliminate or mitigate the risk of falling by ensuring that all reasonable fall protection measures and methods have been taken prior to the commencement of the work.

The CP for Working Safely at Height is available for download at the WSH Council’s website, HERE.

Possible Case of Electrocution - WSH Bulletin

2009-11-23T17:28:00.001+08:00

23 Nov 09

In a recent incident, a worker was deployed to rectify a fault reported during the operation of a tower crane boom. The crane operator was in his cabin waiting for the repair work to be completed. When the cabin fan stopped unexpectedly, the operator looked out and saw the worker lying motionless on the platform in front of the control panel box.

Investigations showed that the worker was probably trying to measure or check the electrical installation inside the control panel box using multi-meter probes (an electrical measurement tool). The burnt marks and strands of hair found stuck on two of the connectors inside the control panel box suggest that he could have been electrocuted and died on the spot.

Fig. 1 Tower crane under repair

Recommendations*

1. Conduct risk assessment: Prior to the start of any work, risk assessment must be carried out by employers and workers to identify potential hazards. Appropriate actions should then be taken to eliminate the hazards or reduce the risks involved. Control measures and safe work procedures must be established, communicated and implemented to ensure the safety and health of the workers involved. Some of the hazards relevant to this incident include:

a. Exposed wires/connectors/terminals that are still energized and “live”
b. Working at height while troubleshooting the fault

2. Live testing precautions: Before performing any electrical work, one should ensure that the work can be done without the system being energised. Work on or near live conductors should be avoided. Should live testing be necessary to trace a malfunction of the equipment, suitable safety precautions should be taken, including putting temporary insulating neoprene or polythene sheets over live components and/or applying insulation to parts that are at earth potential. These temporary insulating sheets can also help to prevent the risk of accidental short circuit from tools, components and conductors.

3. Use of dry rubber insulating mat: Where there is the possibility of electrocution, workers should be asked to use dry rubber insulating mats. The rubber mat insulates the floor on which the person stands, reducing the risk of the flow of electrical current through the person. Other electrical insulation methods such as rubber blankets, gloves, sleeves, properly designed and rubber-soled boots may also be used.

4. Provision of adequate training: All workers should be adequately trained in the identification and control of hazards in their workplace. Specialized electrical safety training must be provided to those who may need to work with or around exposed components of electric circuits. The training should include, but not be limited to, basic electrical theory, proper safe work procedures, hazard awareness and identification, proper use of personal protective equipment, proper lockout/ tagout procedures, first aid including CPR, and proper rescue procedures. Provisions should also be made for periodic re-training.

5. Buddy system: For certain electrical works, it is recommended to implement a buddy system. In an emergency, the buddy (i.e. a co-worker) could switch off the electrical supply immediately and render assistance on site.

6. Lock-out procedures: Lock out procedures must be established and implemented for the inspection, repair and maintenance of any machinery or equipment. All energy sources to the relevant machinery or equipment should be isolated, disconnected or discharged to prevent any part of the machinery or equipment from being inadvertently activated or energised.

7. Personal protective equipment: Those who are potentially exposed to live components should be provided with appropriate protective clothing and equipment, such as electrical protective resistance glove for measurement and testing work. Such equipment should be inspected regularly by a competent person. Those working at height (e.g. on platform) must also be provided with a proper fall protection system, incorporating safety harness and secured anchor points to reduce the risk of falling.

Further Information

1. Workplace Safety and Health Act
2. Electricity Act (Cap. 89A)
3. Electricity (Electrical Workers) Regulations
4. Electricity (Electrical Installations) Regulations

* Please note that the information provided is intended to enhance workplace safety and health so that a similar recurrence may be prevented, and is not exhaustive. The information provided should not to be construed as implying any liability to any party nor should it be taken to encapsulate all the responsibilities and obligations of the reader of WSH Alert under the law.

Fatigue Attributed to the Death of a Prime Mover Driver - WSH Bulletin

2009-11-17T09:00:00.001+08:00

16 Nov 2009

Incident

In this incident, a Terminal Prime Mover (TPM-2) in a container port swerved and collided onto the rear of another TPM (TPM-1) travelling in the opposite direction (Figure 1). As a result of the collision, the driver of TPM-2 was thrown out of the cabin and subsequently died in hospital.

Summary of Findings

Investigation revealed that the incident occurred primarily due to Man (driver of TPM-2), with Management as a contributory factor. The driver did not take care of his own safety and health by adhering to the “Compulsory Short Break” (CSB) as required by the Management. He also did not fasten his seat belt, and the fatigue arising from long hours of work might have caused him to lose control of his TPM, and prevent him from applying the emergency brake in time.

Management contributed to the incident by not having a well designed work schedule for the drivers. Although Management instituted a good concept in CSB, it was inadequate for the drivers to recuperate sufficiently.

For more details and information, click Here for the Lessons Learnt Case Report which describes the incident details, and highlights recommendations to prevent similar accidents from happening.

WSH Alert – Fall from Height - WSH Bulletin

2009-11-12T08:24:00.001+08:00

11 Nov 09

Incident

In a recent accident, a worker fell to his death while climbing the turntable ladder to the crane cabin of a tower crane. The lifeline was terminated at the top mast, and the worker had removed his safety harness when climbing from the turntable to the cabin. While he was ascending the turntable ladder, the worker slipped and fell onto the mast platform 6 m below.

Fig 1: Height of worker’s fall

Fig 2. The turntable ladder to the cabin

Recommendations*

1. Conduct risk assessment before starting any work: Identify potential hazards and take appropriate actions to eliminate the hazards or reduce the risks involved. For this incident, the hazards include the failure to don proper Personal Protection Equipment (PPE). The risk assessment should also include non-routine or emergency situations so that measures can be adopted to minimise the risks for such situations.

2. Put in place an effective workplace safety and health management programme: Employers should establish and implement a Safety and Health policy, and safety management system with proper control measures and safe work procedures. This includes a fall protection plan for any work that may involve workers falling from a height. The safety and health programme must be clearly communicated to all levels of personnel, such as through refresher courses or daily tool box meetings.

3. Safe access on tower cranes: To prevent falls, employers must provide safe access for crane operators and other persons who need to carry out inspection and maintenance work on a tower crane. Safe access (ladders with hoop guards) to the operator’s cabin should include rest-landings at every interval not exceeding nine metres of the mast. If a mast has a continuous vertical ladder for access, an effective fall-arrest system that does not require the person to constantly hook on and off must be provided.

4. Issue appropriate PPE: Workers must be issued the appropriate PPE, such as full body harness that is securely anchored (through lanyard, shock absorbers and hook) at all times to protect against accidental falls. Additional lifeline should be employed specifically for the turntable to prevent falls. The workers must be trained on the safe and proper use of the PPE.

5. Ensure proper supervision: Employers should ensure that workers adhere to the established safe work procedures, e.g. by ensuring that workers follow the fall protection plan when working at height and disciplining workers who exhibit unsafe acts and do not comply with the safe work procedures.

Further Information

1. Workplace Safety and Health Act, please click here.

2. Factories (Operation of Cranes) Regulations.

3. Workplace Safety and Health (Construction) Regulations, please click here.

4. Singapore Standard CP 62 – Safe Use of Tower Cranes.

5. Singapore Standard SS 528 – 1: 2006 Personal Fall Arrest Systems - Full-body harnesses.

6. Singapore Standard SS 528 – 2: 2006 Personal Fall Arrest Systems - Lanyards and energy absorbers.

7. Singapore Standard SS 528 – 3: 2006 Personal Fall Arrest Systems - Self-retracting lifelines.

8. Singapore Standard SS 528 – 5: 2006 Personal Fall Arrest Systems - Connectors with self-closing and self-locking gates.

9. ProBE Technical Advisory on Working At Height, please click here.

Difference between working in different industries

2009-11-10T08:15:00.002+08:00

After working as a Safety Officer for 3 years at 3 different industries, I would like to share on my personal views on the pros & cons of these 3 workplace. Shipyard, Metalworking & Electronic industries.

Shipyard

Pros: You will get strong support from your top management in getting safety requirement (getting RA written, getting people to be responsible for first aid, essential safety training) implemented/conducted as required by the legislation. Cooperation from subcontractor can be positive. Mainly on enforcement & inspection.

Cons: Be prepared to be working everyday & working at the highest risk working environment. Sun, rain, sweat, dirt, pollutant, they are your best friend. You'll need good physical stamina. Chances of having a critical accident is high.

Metalworking

Pros: You might get good support from top management due to OHSAS 18001 &/or moderate accident rate. You might face some glitches when getting employee to do safety requirement. The level of difficulty shall depends on the level of support you received from your top management. Chances of having personal time & 5 Days job schedule is high.

Cons: Dust, coolant, high level of first aid cases. Majority from Hand Injury. Plenty of audits to handle. More of paperwork stress. Chances of having a critical accident is moderate.

Electronics

Pros: You might not have a single severe accident even if you have worked there for 5 years! Very low risk & clean working environment. Mainly 5 days schedule.

Cons: You will not get sufficient support from top management as Safety is an oblivion issue to them due to extreme low accident rate. In an electronic company, production is top priority to the whole company. So getting employee to participate in Safety requirement is near to but not impossible. Employees will tell you they are very very busy & they have no time for Safety meeting & attend training. You may be sitting in the training room for the whole day with no participant. Even if you report to your top management, little will be done. You will get the feeling of unable to discharge your reasonably responsibility as a Safety Officer.

Currently, I'm facing extreme negative Safety attitude in my current company. I guess this is expected in a Manufacturing Company. I will aim to explore into new industry to gain more understanding on the Best Safety Working Industry to work in ..... but not so soon...

Dust Control at Demolition Sites - WSH Bulletin

2009-11-05T08:32:00.000+08:00

4 Nov 2009

Demolition work involves hacking, crushing, and cutting, which can generate large amount of dust and debris. If poorly managed, the clouds of dust can contain particulate emissions that may be hazardous to human health. They may also reduce visibility, delay demolition activities and cause property damage.

To help contractors better control these hazards, we have provided important learning points in this WSH Bulletin, including enclosure of work areas, proper ventilation systems, workers’ training and the provision of Personal Protective Equipment. A good practice example is also included. Ginlee Construction Pte Ltd, a bizSAFE3 contractor, explains how it planned the demolition works at Changi Airport Terminal 1 while the terminal continued to be in operation. Read the full article here.

Technical Advisory for Working Safely in Confined Spaces - WSH Bulletin

2009-11-03T08:34:00.000+08:00

2 Nov 2009

Work in confined spaces can be highly hazardous and can affect large groups of workers in one single incident. In 2008, 10% of workplace fatalities were attributed to confined space incidents. Confined space work was identified by the Ministry of Manpower and the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Council as a Programme-based Engagement (ProBE) area for 2009.

As of 1 November 2009, a new Workplace Safety and Health (Confined Spaces) Regulations came into effect. To help industry comply with the new Regulations, the WSH Council has engaged industry stakeholders through a WSHC Forum in September, and provided materials for the industry’s use. These are available on the WSHC website at this link.

Further to these initiatives, the WSHC has also developed a Technical Advisory (TA) for working safely in confined spaces. The TA will provide more information on how to manage confined spaces related hazards as well as emergency and rescue procedures for the rescue team. Read the Technical Advisory on Working Safely in Confined Spaces here.

Workers Burnt in Sewage Chamber Explosion - WSH Bulletin

2009-10-22T19:06:00.001+08:00

Incident

On 21 October 2009, six workers were tasked to seal two sewer pipes inside an unused sewage chamber at the junction of Macpherson Road and Aljunied Road by filling the two pipes up with a cement compound. When they were preparing the worksite for this work, an explosion followed by a fire occurred in the sewage chamber. All six workers were injured. Preliminary findings revealed the presence of flammable gases in the sewage chamber. Investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the explosion, the source of the gases and the possible source of ignition.
Recommendations*
1. Conduct Risk Assessment: Adequate risk assessments must be conducted before starting any work. Through risk assessment, all potential hazards can be identified and appropriate actions taken to eliminate these hazards or reduce the risks involved. One possible hazard in this incident was the presence of a hazardous atmosphere in the sewage chamber.

2. Entry Permit and Permit-To-Work: The supervisor of the person who is to enter or work in the confined space must apply for an entry permit. The entry permit must be approved by the authorised manager, and should be validated on a daily basis if work in the confined space needs to be continued. Additionally, a Permit-to-Work system must be put in place implemented to ensure that hazardous works such as hot works are properly assessed for safe execution.

3. Continuous Monitoring of Atmosphere: A competent person such as the confined space safety assessor must test the atmosphere of a confined space for oxygen, flammable and toxic gases or vapour, and certify that the space is safe for entry before work commences. The atmosphere needs to be monitored constantly to ensure it remains within the safe limits to carry out the work. Among other criteria, the confined space should only be certified safe for entry if:
• The oxygen level is within 19.5% to 23.5% by volume.• The level of flammable gas is less than 10% of its Lower Explosive Limit (LEL).• The level of toxic substances is less than the Permissible Exposure Levels (PEL).

4. Provide Adequate Ventilation: Suitable and adequate ventilation should be provided at all times. It is important to provide fresh air and/or to dilute and remove any contaminants to a safe level. A combination of forced or supplied and exhaust ventilation can be used to ensure adequate ventilation of the space.

5. Emergency Response Plan: For work involving confined spaces, an emergency response plan (ERP), including rescue equipment, has to be put in place. Among other requirements, the plan should include the following:
• Ensure line of communications is available at all times during the work.• Ensure quick means of escape that are suitable for use by every person who enters the confined space.• Make retrieval devices and “breathing apparatus” (BA) sets readily available for use in case of an emergency. • Remind workers that they must follow the ERP and not rush in to rescue co-workers as by doing so, they might endanger their own lives.• Train supervisors, workers and other personnel on the actions to be taken during an emergency.

Further Information

1. Workplace Safety and Health Act 2006, please click here.
2. Workplace Safety and Health (General Provisions) Regulations 2006, please click here.
3. Workplace Safety and Health (Risk Management) Regulations 2006.
4. Workplace Safety and Health (Confined Spaces) Regulations 2009, please click here.
5. Risk Assessment Guidelines.
6. Approved Code of Practice for Entry into and Safe Working in Confined Spaces [CP 84 : 2000]
7. Technical Advisory for Confined Spaces, please click here.

* Please note that the information provided is intended to enhance workplace safety and health so that a similar recurrence may be prevented, and is not exhaustive. The information provided should not to be construed as implying any liability to any party nor should it be taken to encapsulate all the responsibilities and obligations of the reader of WSH Alert under the law.

Plan to get some award to showcase your company's safety?

2009-10-22T11:54:00.001+08:00

Safety@Work Creative Awards

Join the Safety@Work Creative Awards 2010.

Jointly organised by the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Council and Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd (ST Engineering) in collaboration with Ministry of Manpower (MOM), the Safety@Work Creative Awards showcases local students’ creative talents in advocating the importance of safety at the workplace.

Accidents at work (especially in factories and heavy industries) affect not only workers, but their families, employers and society at large. Yet, with good safety habits, work-related accidents can be avoided. This competition aims to promote safety at work among the employees, general public and encourage everyone to adopt a safety mindset.

The theme for next year’s competition is Safety@Work, with specific focus on Working with Machines. Working with Machines can be translated into potential hazards encountered while handling cranes, forklifts and logistic transport vehicles such as prime movers (exclude transport of workers). The students’ creative can leverage on prevention or safety in this area such as:

Hazards from crane operation involve falling of objects, struck by moving objects and toppling of crane due to overloading

Hazards from forklift operation involve overloading of goods resulting in toppling of goods or forklift, speeding, using forklift as the incorrect equipment to reach high areas, workers crushed in-between objects, fatigue from driving long hours and failure to belt up

Hazards from driving logistics vehicles involve speeding, falling objects from vehicles, overloading of goods, fatigue from driving long hours, workers crushed in-between vehicles and failure to belt up

To help the participants better understand the theme, the following are some examples of working with machines for your reference.

Caught between the mast section and cabin of forklift
>> Case 1: A service technician was assigned to repair a forklift on the owner’s premises. He was required to replace the seals for the hydraulic cylinders of the mast section of the forklift to prevent oil leakage. About an hour into the repair work, he was found trapped, with his neck caught between the mast section and the roof of the operator’s cabin. He died of brain damage due to suffocation. The battery cable was connected and the engine was running when the worker was found trapped in the forklift.

Struck by a falling crane boom
>> Case 2: A crawler crane operated by a worker was lifting a bundle of rebars from the ground floor to the second storey of an uncompleted building. When the bundle of rebars was about to be unloaded, the crane boom suddenly collapsed. Two workers were killed and another injured as a result of the collapsed boom.

The competition opens NOW. Competition closes on Monday, 15 March 2010.

For more information, please contact:
Mark Han
Tel: 6324 7202
Fax: 6324 7578
Email: mark_eugene_han@wshc.gov.sg

Disclaimer: The organisers will not be liable for any entries that are lost when sent by post. Upon submission, the entries will become property of the organisers and therefore will not be returned.

ELIGIBILITY
The competition is open to all full-time students currently enrolled in tertiary institutes in Singapore, including the ITEs, polytechnics, universities, as well as art academies, colleges and institutes. Secondary schools and junior colleges are welcomed to submit their entries. Entries must consist of original ideas produced wholly by the respective participant(s).

Entries which are deemed by the judges to be direct adaptations or plagiarisms of existing material will be disqualified.

CATEGORIES
The Safety@Work Creative Awards comprise two categories: Digital Animation and Poster Design. Photography and 3D treatment can be used for the poster design. For each category, there is also a Judges’ Choice where the winners will win a two-month internship with a reputable design or animation agency as well as a cash prize.

For both categories, participants are strongly encouraged to adopt a celebratory, witty and/or positive treatment of the theme. Winning entries will be reproduced for displays at industry premises and facilities for safety training purposes.

Digital Animation
Entries can be submitted individually or in groups of not more than five persons. Participating teams may comprise individuals from varying age groups.

The duration of all entries must be between 30 to 60 seconds. They can be presented as an original short story or advertisement. Entries that copy or spoof existing local or foreign stories or advertisements will not be accepted. The animation must relate to the theme of the competition.

Entries can be created with any 3D/2D animation software (such as 3D Studio Max, Maya, Macromedia Flash, Adobe After Effects) available in the market but must be playable on PC/Mac DVD-ROM drives or consumer DVD players. Software used must not be unlicensed or illegally obtained.

All entries must be saved in MPEG2 format and submitted in a DVD-ROM or CD-ROM. The resolution of the files must be set at 720 x 576 pixels, with a playback rate of 25 fps (frames per second).

All entries must be accompanied with a screen shot of the animation in JPG.

Each entry must be accompanied by an official entry form which is found on the contest website. Entry forms must be endorsed with the faculty supervisor’s signature and the official institution stamp, and affixed to the DVD box in the submission.

Logos and credits are NOT required.

Download entry form

Poster Design
All poster design entries must be submitted individually.

All submitted entries must be in A3 size and mounted on card or foam boards with a border of 2.5 cm all around. The poster must be original in design. Entries that copy or spoof existing local or foreign poster design works will not be accepted. The poster design must relate to the theme of the competition.

Poster design entries may be created with any image design software (such as Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Corel Draw, Macromedia FreeHand) available in the market. Software used must not be unlicensed or illegally obtained.

All poster design submissions must include a short write-up of not more than 100 words describing the rationale of the design. This write-up must be pasted on the back of the board at the bottom left corner.

All entries must be accompanied by soft copies of the final artwork in high resolution PDF and a working file in A3 size in a CD-ROM. All text must be converted to paths or created outlines. All image links have to be included in the CD-ROM in RGB colours. The resolution for the files should be a minimum of 300 dpi. The CD-ROM should be enclosed in an envelope or case and affixed at the back of the board.

Logos are NOT required.

Download entry form

COPYRIGHT AND INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY ISSUES
The use of copyrighted material, sounds, music, unlicensed or illegal software, as well as libelous, offensive, or defamatory content is not permitted. Entries must not include any trademarked material without the written permission from the owners of these material. Pictures, photographs, sound and/or music that have been taken from other sources must also be accompanied by written permission from the relevant sources for their use. Such written permission must be submitted together with the entries. The participants will be held responsible for any infringement of copyright of material used in their entries.

All submitted entries may be used for the purposes of marketing and promotions by the WSH Council and ST Engineering in connection with or without relation to their products and services as well as events organised or sponsored by them, including but not limited to the competition. The WSH Council and ST Engineering may, in their absolute discretion and in such manner as they deem fit, use the entries or parts of the entries for the said purposes without any reference to or acknowledgement of the participants.

PRIZES AND AWARDS

Digital Animation
1st prize	S$5,000
2nd prize	S$3,500
3rd prize	S$2,000
3 commendation prizes	S$1,000 each
Judges’ Choice Award	Two-month internship with Infinite Frameworks + S$1,000

Poster Design
1st prize	S$2,500
2nd prize	S$1,500
3rd prize	S$1,000
3 commendation prizes	S$500 each
Judges’ Choice Award	Two-month internship with JWT International + S$500

In addition to the cash prizes, all winners will also be presented with certificates at a prize-giving ceremony. Winning teams and individuals may be required to present their entries to the press or media representatives, and their entries may be used in posters, CD-ROMs and other publicity materials. Winners may also be required to convert their animations into other formats or to scale their poster designs to A2 size for the purpose of publicity.

JUDGING CRITERIA
Entries in both categories will be judged based on the following criteria:

Concept	[40%]
Relevance of the entry to the central theme of Safety@Work and the efficiency in communicating the message.
Design	[30%]
Originality, creativity and aesthetics.
Technical Execution	[30%]
Proficiency in technical skills, such as camera angles, motion realism, editing, etc. for Digital Animation, and photography, illustration, etc. for Poster Design. Based on the above criteria, each entry will be reviewed and scored by an expert panel of judges. Winners will be notified via email and phone in April 2010. The decision of the judges will be final. No further correspondence will be entertained. The organisers also reserve the right to: remove and disqualify, at their discretion, any entry deemed offensive or an infringement of any rules revise the rules and regulations at any time, and not award any of the prizes, if entries fail to meet the standards of the judges

Working Safely with Electrical Equipment - WSH Bulletin

2009-10-22T08:36:00.002+08:00

21 Oct 09

Electricity is part and parcel of our daily lives, but it can cause significant danger or harm if mishandled. Accidents can be caused by electrical hazards such as defective equipment, damaged electrical cords, exposed wires, overloaded circuits and wet conditions. It is therefore important for all staff working at or near electrical equipment to understand basic electrical safety and adopt the necessary precautionary measures.

The factsheet on electrical safety provides recommendations on precautionary measures for working safely with electrical equipment. The following case studies illustrating the dangers of working with electrical equipment are highlighted in the factsheet.

Case study 1: A worker received a fatal electric shock while attempting to operate an electric stirrer at a construction worksite.

Case study 2: A worker received a fatal electric shock while carrying out arc welding work on a metal structure in a factory.

Flash Fire in Confined Space - WSH Bulletin

2009-10-16T08:19:00.001+08:00

15 Oct 2009

Incident

In this incident, a team of 6 workers was doing roller painting in a confined space when a flash fire occurred. All the workers managed to climb out of the confined space. 4 of the workers sustained burns while 2 others were unhurt. One of the injured workers died later due to complications arising from inhalation injury and extensive burns.

Summary of Findings

Investigations revealed that the flash fire was caused by the accumulation of flammable vapours and the use of poorly maintained non-flame proof lighting in the confined space. The preparation of the paint mixture in the confined space had accelerated the accumulation of flammable vapours, which could not be effectively diluted by the forced ventilation provided. There were no established procedures for eliminating the risk of vapour accumulation, and for the continuous monitoring of flammable vapour levels. Properly maintained flame proof lighting was also not provided.

For more details and information, click Here for the Lessons Learnt Case Report where lapses in safety and recommendations are highlighted to prevent similar accidents from happening.

Release of the WSH Statistics Report (Jan – Jun 2009) - From WSH Bulletin

2009-10-15T08:44:00.000+08:00

14 Oct 09

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Council have released the latest WSH Statistics Report for January to June 2009. The report shows a drop in the overall number of work injuries, including temporary disablements, as well as occupational diseases. However, the number of fatalities and permanent disablements has increased. The increase in fatalities is seen across various sectors especially the construction, marine and manufacturing industries. The top three causes of fatalities are falls from height, collapse/toppling of structure or equipment and struck by objects falling from height.

Chairman of the WSH Council Mr Lee Tzu Yang urged each industry stakeholder to look seriously at all the WSH concerns in their workplaces and take active steps to address them. He added that the Council is developing a structured culture-building programme and a culture index that will raise safety standards in workplaces across Singapore.

To address the increase in number of fatalities and areas of concern highlighted in the Report, MOM and WSH Council have outlined several initiatives such as industry-led taskforces and sector-specific approaches.

Click HERE for the media release.

Lead Poisoning - WSH Bulletin

2009-10-14T08:18:00.000+08:00

13 Oct 09

Lead is a poisonous substance that affects many parts of the body, particularly the nervous system such as the brain and nerves, as well as the blood system and kidneys. Lead poisoning occurs when too much lead enters the body. A person’s body absorbs lead when the person breathes in lead dust, fume or vapour. Eating with bare hands and environmental exposure can contribute to excessive lead absorption. Organic lead compounds can also be absorbed through the skin.

Lead poisoning is an occupational disease that adversely affects workers’ health. In 2008, of the 8 cases of workplace chemical poisoning, 2 cases were related to excessive absorption of lead.

For more information on preventive and control measures of lead poisoning, please click HERE.

Three recent accidents involving unsafe operation of MEWPs - WSH Bulletin

2009-10-08T08:33:00.002+08:00

7 Oct 2009

There were 3 fatalities in the past 3 months where workers were killed while carrying out work activities using mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs). They were crushed between the structures (such as ceiling beams) and the MEWPs they were operating. Investigations revealed several underlying factors that may have contributed to the accidents. It is important that steps be taken to address such factors to prevent further occurrences.

For more details and the recommendations on working safely on MEWPs, please click here.

New Workplace Safety and Health (Confined Spaces) Regulations 2009 - WSH Bulletin

2009-10-03T20:45:00.001+08:00

2 Oct 2009

To ensure safe working conditions in confined spaces in workplaces, the Workplace Safety and Health (Confined Spaces) Regulations 2009 was gazetted on 2 October 2009 and will take effect on 1 November 2009. The key provisions in the new Regulations are:

(a) Keeping a record of confined spaces – A register or record of all fixed and stationary confined spaces must be kept;

(b) Instituting requirements for confined space entry permit – Entry into a confined space should be controlled through the implementation of a systematic confined space entry permit system, conduct of periodic atmospheric testing, and display of entry permit and identification badges at the entrance to the confined space;

(c) Display of warning signs – Warning signs must be displayed at the entrance to the confined space to warn persons of the hazards of the confined space;

(d) Appointment of confined space attendant – A specific provision mandates the appointment of a confined space attendant whenever entry into or work is to be carried out in confined space. The regulation also prescribes specific duties for the attendant such as monitoring persons entering and working in the confined space, as well as alerting rescue personnel during emergencies;

(e) Training of workers, supervisors and rescue personnel – Workers and supervisors should be trained to ensure effective conduct and oversight of work performed in confined spaces. Training requirements are also specified for rescue personnel to ensure that they have the necessary knowledge and skills to carry out rescue operation properly and safely in the event of an accident in confined spaces; and

(f) Establishment of emergency and rescue plan – Emergency and rescue plans as well as provision of rescue equipment should be established to ensure prompt and safe recovery of workers during accidents, to minimise the severity of injuries sustained. The Workplace Safety and Health (Confined Spaces) Regulations 2009 can be viewed at the Ministry of Manpower website here.

A Forum on Working Safely in Confined Spaces - by WSH Bulletin

2009-10-02T08:19:00.001+08:00

1st Oct 2009

In Singapore, about 10 per cent of workplace fatalities are due to work-related accidents in confined spaces. In 2008, there were three confined spaces accidents that claimed seven lives. Hence work in confined spaces has been identified as one of the priority areas for ProBE 2009.

To address the gaps in working safely in confined spaces, a Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Council forum was held on 24 September 2009 at the DBS Auditorium. Speakers from the Ministry of Manpower and the WSH Council shared with over 400 participants on the new WSH confined space regulations, the confined space technical advisory as well as accident case studies. Mr P K Raveendran, Chief HSE Manager at Sembawang Shipyard Pte Ltd, also gave a presentation on good industry practices for working safely in confined spaces.

A confined space kit was also distributed at the event, which included a poster, 3 stickers, a safety plan checklist, a confined space safety guidebook and a DVD containing confined space safety-related videos.

Click here to view the kit in full, and here to download the presentations from the forum.

Another fatal in construction site - Staying in the container office doesn't make your safe

2009-09-30T08:55:00.007+08:00

Sep 30, 2009 Wednesday

Falling mast section kills engineer
500kg metal structure crashes into container office; co-worker injured
By Teh Joo Lin

The roof of the container office where the metal structure - a mast section - crashed into.The structure plummeted 30m when the wire rope of a tower crane hoisting it snapped. The incident happened at the construction site of an upcoming condominium, the Sui Generis, in Balmoral Road off Bukit Timah Road. -- ST PHOTO: CAROLINE CHIA
AN ENGINEER was killed and another worker seriously injured after a 500kg metal structure plummeted 30m and crashed into a container office that they were in yesterday.

This happened when the wire rope of a tower crane, hoisting the 6m-long structure, snapped. Mr Lim Boon Tiong, a 40-year-old engineering consultant with Meinhardt Singapore, was trapped in the container office. He suffered serious head injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. His co-worker, a 41-year-old quality control consultant, was found seated nearby. His right forearm was crushed by debris and he had two deep cuts to his head. He was taken to Tan Tock Seng Hospital, where he is believed to be in a stable condition. The incident happened at about 11.30am at the construction site of an upcoming condominium, the Sui Generis, in Balmoral Road off Bukit Timah Road. Both were part of a group of nine attending a meeting inside the container office. The seven others emerged from the container shocked but otherwise unscathed.

A spokesman for the project said the site is under investigation following the incident. 'We are not in a position to release any information,' she said. The Straits Times understands that the accident happened while work was being done to elevate a mast erected alongside one of the half-built blocks. This mast allows a temporary workers' lift to go up and down the block. The structure that fell about eight storeys onto the container office was an additional section to make the mast taller. Safety experts said a crane's hoisting wires can snap for reasons that include overloading or the corrosion of the rope's inner core. The accident at Sui Generis comes at a time when the authorities are trying to improve crane safety at construction sites.

Last year, there were 162 crane- related accidents, which resulted in the deaths of five people and left 139 injured. In 2007, four men died and 107 were injured.
Following yesterday's incident, the Manpower Ministry issued a stop work order to Chiu Teng Enterprise, the main contractor at the site.

joolin@sph.com.sg

New WSQ Forklift Operator Course - source from WSH Bulletin

2009-09-29T08:40:00.001+08:00

New WSQ Forklift Operator Course from 1 Oct 2009

Currently, any person who operates a forklift is required to complete the Forklift Driver's Training Course which at present is accredited by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). From 1 October 2009, the WSQ 'Operate Forklift' Competency Standard will replace the Forklift Driver's Training Course, which will cease to run wef 30 September 2009.

The new WSQ Operate Forklift Competency Standard was developed by the the industry and facilitated by the Singapore Workforce Development Agency (WDA), MOM and the Workplace Safety and Health Council. This industry-endorsed standard provides a competency-based approach to training forklift operators. Trainees have to demonstrate their skills and knowledge proficiency before they are considered as qualified forklift operators.

Accreditation is put in place to ensure that the course is delivered by quality training organisations using qualified trainers and assessors. It also ensures that the approved course satisfies the competency requirements of the WSQ system and appropriate delivery modes are used. Approved Training Organisations (ATOs) are also required to continuously improve the quality of the design and delivery.

The new WSQ 'Operate Forklift' course will be offered by ATOs accredited by WDA. Existing forklift operators who have already completed the Forklift Driver's Training Course accredited by MOM will continue to be considered as qualified forklift operators.

For more information on the WSQ Operate Forklift Competency Standard, please click link.

HSE alert for shipyard - The Straits Times, 28 Sep 2009

2009-09-28T12:37:00.000+08:00

Occupational Health Safety & Environment position

2009-09-19T13:31:00.002+08:00

Vacancies - dated 19 Sep 09, source "Recruit Straits Times"

Electronic industries
1. System on Silicon Manufacturing Co. Pte Ltd
Position: EHS Snr Enginner or EHS Engineer
Apply online: http://www.ssmc.com/joinus

Facility
2. Keppel FMO (Middle East Position)
Position: Snr Manager QEHS
Apply email: connie.leo@kie.com

Construction
3. Woh Hup Pte Ltd
Position: WSHO cum ECO
Apply email: hr@wohhup.com

4. Soilbuild Group Holding
Position: WSHO
Apply email: recruit@soilbuild.com

5. CHC Construction Company
Position: WSHO
Apply email: hr@chccpl.com.sg

Another fatal accident in Singapore - Marina Bay Sands IR

2009-09-19T11:22:00.004+08:00

Self explanatory, another tragic happened in construction site.

What is the average wages for a Workplace Safety & Health Officer?

2009-08-30T00:53:00.003+08:00

A junior came to me today... asking on the salary 1st thing before asking me on the degree of responsibility as a Safety Officer. Yakking that a lot of friends are earning screaming high salary & he envy them... and here's the reason for the beginning of today's blog...

I guess after reading so much on Safety regulations, job descriptions & other information, the ultimate questions everyone should be concerned now is, how much am I being paid for taking up heavy responsibilities & putting my neck on the chopping board? Well, I seriously can't give you a definite answer now. Why? First of all, the salary scale can behave very erratically, very much depend on which industry you plan to work for. For example, if you prefer to work at a regular fixed time-in time-out work patterns, work 5 days a week, you gotta lower your scale in your expectation. I know, your peers would be telling you that they earn $XXXX amount, excluding OT, transport allowance & other incentives. Yes, they are earning big bucks but do you see the other side? Most top earners are usually from high risk industry like construction & shipyard. Of course their wages are very high because their risk is very high as well. You can't be expecting a very safe industry to pay you rocket high rite? Notwithstanding, you also need to consider the years of experience in Safety that you earned as well. Simply said, the longer your experiences, the more you get paid. Savvy? You will also need to take into consideration on the additional roles (e.g. FSM, ECO,...) as taking up additional roles do help in giving you more bucks.

I fully understand each and everyone feelings when the HR is hagging on your wages & you are lost. My advice to you is this, if they are paying you an unbelievable amount, sometimes it may not be that attractive as seems to be. Do not expect an easy job from a high paying job. You need to weigh the risk & wages & decide if it's worth it. There are many WSHOs who start off their career in a construction site today & tendered their resignation just 3 days later...

Work safe Be safe

What to do after completing your WSHO certification?

2009-08-14T16:32:00.004+08:00

We all know that learning never stops, not even when we'd been working for decades. It would be a norm to feel that you need to upgrade your knowledge to either improve your efficiency or to open the path for promotion in your organization. Although experience is an requirement, to be qualified as a Safety Manager, you need the qualifications as well. So, how do we go about it?

1. Taking a Degree on Occupational Health & Safety.
As far as I know, the PSB academy do have a joint program with the University of Newcastle in giving a Bachelor in Environment and Occupational Health & Safety course. It's a 2 years program & if you had attended some safety training, you might be exempted from some subjects. Damage: up to $22,256

2. Taking a Certification by NEBOSH
This certification (NEBOSH International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety) is very professional. I'd not taken this course yet but if I had the money & time, I would. Why? This certification get recognized globally. :-) Damage: $4,066 (you can get SDF subsidy)

3. Taking a Lead Auditor Course
You can choose to take a Lead Auditor course for either ISO 14001 or OHSAS 18001 or both. Having these 2 certificates can assist in helping your company to achieve the Certification or maintain the Certification. However, please note that you are unable to conduct certification for your employer / company as it will be a conflict of interest. There are many institutions that are giving this course, hence happy google. These course are not as expensive as the above.

4. Take up courses to be a qualified trainer
This route can serve as a part-time job to provide training to newbies. You can get yourself qualified by going thru the courses proved from the Institution of Adult Learning. Visit the website to learn out more.

Well, that's all that I can share. Please continue to support me!

Work safe, Be safe

Another fatal accident in Sentosa IR

2009-08-14T08:22:00.004+08:00

HSE Committee Meeting - What are the requirements?

2009-07-31T09:55:00.003+08:00

Under the Workplace Safety & Health (Workplace Safety & Health Committees) Regulations 2008, factories with 50 or more persons (excluding persons who carry out any work which is of a temporary nature & is not ordinarily carried out in the factory) is required to establish a Workplace Safety & Health Committee in the company.

Chairman
The occupier is responsible to set up this committee & appoint a competent person as a chairman.

Secretary
The occupier is also responsible to either appoint the WSH officer as the secretary or if no WSH Officer employed, a competent person from the committee shall be appointed.

Committee Members
The committee members shall consist of employees who are representatives of person at work in the factory & of the management of the factory.

Frequency of the meeting
The Meeting shall be conducted not less than once every month. It shall be conducted during working hours.

Matter to be discussed at meeting
Only matters relating to the safety & health of a person at work in the factory shall be discussed.

Functions of the committee meeting

To conduct a general inspection of factory & discussed in the meeting.
To report all findings in the report & rectify the matters before the next meeting.
To conduct inspection of factory after accident or dangerous occurrence.
Assist in organizing safety promotions.

Minutes of the meeting

The minutes of the meeting shall be furnished to the occupier & to all committee members. The minutes shall be kept for a period of 3 years & shall be produced whenever the Commissioner request.

Powers of the WSH Committee

The WSH Committee have the power to do all or any of the following;

Enter, inspect & examine the factory at any reasonable time;
Inspect & examine any machinery, equipment, plant, installations or article in the factory
To inspect on the factory records, certificates, notices & documents kept or required under the Act, including other relevant document and to inspect & examine any of them.
To examine & inquire of the factory or any person at work in that factory as may be necessary to execute its duties.
To access the level of noise, illumination, heat or harmful or hazardous substances in the factory and the exposure levels of person at work.

Offence

Anyone who contravenes the regulations shall be fine not exceeding $10,000 for a first offence & not exceeding $20,00 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months or both for 2nd & subsequent offender.

iReport - What are the criterias?

2009-07-29T10:47:00.004+08:00

Under the Workplace Safety & Health (incident Reporting) Regulation, it is the responsibility of an employer to report accidents, dangerous occurrences & occupational disease at workplaces. Hence, the definition of the above 3 incidents play an important role.

Workplace Accident - A workplace accident is any accident occurring in the course of a person's work.
Dangerous Occurrence - A dangerous occurrence is any serious workplace incident which does not involve the death or injury of any person at work.
Occupational Disease - Anyone of the 31 Occupational Diseases stated in the Regulation.

After determine that the incident happened belongs to one or more of the 3 types of incidents, you may need to take note of the following guideline.

Workplace accident resulted in death of an employee.

Who to report - The employer of the deceased worker
Timeline - As soon as reasonably practical / Submit report within 10 days of the accident

Workplace accident results in employee with more that 3 consecutive days of medical leave or hospitalized for at least 24 hrs.

Who to report - The employer of the injured worker
Timeline - Submit report within 10 days of the accident

Workplace accident which involved a self-employed person or member of public & results in death or treatment in hospital for the injury.

Who to report - The occupier of the workplace
Timeline - As soon as reasonably practicable / submit report within 10 days of the accident

A dangerous occurrence.

Who to report - The occupier of the workplace
Timeline - As soon as reasonably practicable / submit report within 10 days of the accident

An occupational disease.

Who to report - The employer of the person with the disease & the doctor who diagnosed the disease
Timeline - Employer Submit the report within 10 days of the receipt of written diagnosis / Doctor - Submit the report within 10 days of the diagnosis

A subsequent death of an employee as a result at the workplace.

Who to report - The employer
Timeline - As soon as reasonably practicable

For submission of accident & incident which required notification "As soon as reasonably practicable", you are required to notify the Commissioner of Workplace Safety and Health either by telephone (6317 1111) or fax (6324 7572). The following information shall be furnished in the notification;

Date & time of the accident/incident
The place of the accident/incident
Name & identification number of the deceased / injured
Name of the employer or occupier
Brief description of the accident / incident
Nature & severity of the injury
The name & contact of the person who report the accident / incident

For iReport, you can visit the website at the following web address - http:www.mom.gov.sg/iReport. Before you attempt to report online, you may wish to prepare the following information to assist in expediting the reporting.

Particulars of the incident, including what happened, where it happened and how it happened.
Particulars of the injured or deceased.
Particulars of the employer, including the employer's name, organization identification number (ACRA number)
Particulars of the occupier of the incident premises including the occupier's name and organization identification number (ACRA number)

All records shall be kept for a minimum of 3 years.

The penalty for failure to report to the Ministry shall be subjected to the following sentence;

First offence - Fine of up to $5,000
Subsequent offence - Fine of up to $10,000 or a jail term of not more than 6 months or both.

False notification or report will be liable to a fine of up to $5,000 or a jail term of not more than 6 months or both.

Updates - New requirements for Metalworking Safety Orientation Course (MSOC)

2009-07-10T21:30:00.007+08:00

Attention to all RSOs who are working in the Metalworking Industry. I'd just attending the Metalworking Industry Briefing this afternoon at HDB Hub & was informed that there will be some critical changes to the current training certification for workers in Metalworking Industry. It will be most beneficial that we, as a Safety Professionals know these new guidelines well & are able to brief our management accurately.

Current Requirement till 30 Sep 2009
Workers performing manual labour relating to the manufacturing of basic metals, fabricated metal products, machinery/ equipment, as well as electrical machinery and apparatus are required to attend and pass the Metalworking Safety Orientation Course (MSOC) to ensure that they attain key knowledge on working safely. Employers are also expected to have their workers re-certified in MSOC every three years.

Effective from 1st Oct 2009

(a) Issuance of Work Permits

New foreign workers are required to attend the MSOC and sit for the test within 14 calendar days of arrival in Singapore before applying for the issuance of their work permit. Workers are required to pass the MSOC within 3 months of their arrival in Singapore or their work permits will be revoked.

(b) Renewal of Work Permits

The remaining validity period of the MSOC certificate must be more than a month at the point of work permit renewal.

Workers can sit for a re-certification test without attending the MSOC again. If they fail the test on the first try, they will need to attend MSOC and pass a re-test. - For the first 6 years of employment in the metalworking industry, workers are required to pass the MSOC test every 2 years. - For workers who have worked 6 years or more, they are required to pass the test every 4 years.

I'd extracted all these information form the WSHC website. Shall you need to know more about this new requirements, please feel free to click HERE to view the Guide on the new requirements for Metalworking Safety Orientation Course.

Don't be complacent, Work Safe

Five questions to ask before starting work

2009-06-30T20:25:00.005+08:00

Usually during the first toolbox meeting or "Take 5" (that's what they call toolbox meeting during my time in shipyard), it's always very natural to be awkward as everyone is strange with each another. Personally, I usually use these 5 questions to break the ice on translating safety awareness to them for the first time. I'll begin with...

Before you start your assigned task, it's important to ask yourself

Q1. Based on the assign task, what could go wrong?

Will I be caught in, on under or between?
Will I be in contact with chemical, heat, electricity or sharp item?
Will I be strike against or by item or object?
Will I fall from the same level or from elevation?
Will I overexert which led to sprain, strain, repetitive motion or excessive noise?

Q2. Why am I doing this job this way? Is there a safer way to do it?

Q3. How could doing it this way hurt me or others?

Q4. How can I do it more safely?

Q5. What am I going to do to protect myself / others?

Only by having answering all these 5 questions with positive replies, you can be certain that your assigned task is safe to proceed. It's most encourage to have a open discussion with your colleagues. Ensure them that they have the right to refuse any jobs that could endanger their life or health. Ensure them that with their reasonable reasons, they will not be penalised for refusing to proceed with the assign task. I'd met too many workers who are afraid to say no to their unethical employer as they are afraid that they might be send back to their hometown or be sack for refusing a job. With such fear in them, it's just another accident waiting to happen. As a Safety Officer, it's our job to protect and ensure that the workers are able to complete their assigned tasks without compromising their safety. Complacent takes your job, ethic protects your conscience.

Work safe, Be safe.

New invisible difficulty faced by Safety Officer

2009-06-24T21:16:00.004+08:00

During my 2 years being a Safety Officer, I faced lots of difficulties such as uncooperative worker to stingy bosses. However, I came across a new type of problem that perhaps will only occur during bad times, which might have very great impact to your safety level. The problem is fear. The psychological state of most employee will be badly affected due to the poor economy. As you know, during bad times, retrenchment, reduce of overtime, pay cut are some of the usual practice conducted by most company. Although knowing that it's inevitable to do cut cost to allow the company to stay afloat, the damage caused to the employee is relatively huge too. I'd spoken to some of my foreign colleagues from China & India & they told me that their hometown is also badly affected. While the normal inventories continue to increase in cost, salary continue to be reduced. Maintaining a sustainable life seems to be harder. Worries caused them to stay off focus on their job & in this instant, it's just a matter of time for accident to happen.

I fully understand that as a Safety Officer, this type of psychological problem is never easy to resolve. Having putting effort to prevent morale from dropping, there are very little solutions to smoother a worry heart. I would strongly recommend that top management NOT to stay in their comfortable office to avoid confrontation with the employee. On the contrary, they should linger with the company employee, irregardless of ranking, gather their respect & trust so as to face the problem together.

I must emphasis here that my view on Safety is not 100% via Enforcement. Education plays a major part in Safety. Injecting fear (via enforcement) to the employee no longer applicable as our employee now are relatively educated, not like our fore-fathers. Only by understanding via education can led the workplace safety to another higher level. If you are from a Top Management, talk a stroll down the alleyway of your production area. It's time to communicate with them. Safety Starts With Me! Just my personal thoughts.

Work Safe, Be Safe...

Classification of chemical

2009-06-18T11:18:00.004+08:00

Chemical usage had entered into our human daily life. The convenience & effectiveness had usually blind our rational in decision if using a chemical is required. Nonetheless, chemicals had already establish a firm ground to stay, for a very long time. They may appear in solid, liquid or gas form. Some may be visible, some may not. Some may come with a odor, some odorless. Some can kill instantly (acute effect), others may kill you slowly (chronic effect) & some may not have significant effect on humans. So, to ensure everyone know of the potential harm associated when they use the chemicals, it's best to classify your chemical in an international format so to alert users of the danger when they attempt to use the chemical. I'd attached a Hazard Rating list (courtesy from BRADY), integrated with the types of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to be use. You may use this as a guide to classify your chemicals in ensure Chemical Safety in your workplace.

Please take note, you are to classified your chemicals ONLY via the information stated in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) of the chemical.

E.g: With reference to the chemical MSDS, you may rate a chemical with slight toxicity, a flash point of 85°F, stable condition under normal condition with recommended PPE of safety glasses & glove as 130B. Of course you may consider giving it a number for your easy reference.

Of course, to truly understand the types of hazards associated with the chemical, it's to your best interest to read up the MSDS for more details. Shall you have intention to use or purchase this rating sticker, please visit BRADY websites for more information.

Safe working always.

Confined Space

2009-06-13T11:33:00.003+08:00

Working in a confined space can be very dangerous if you are unaware of the types of potential danger that dwell in a confined space. Before we discuss on the danger, perhaps it will be very beneficial to identify what is a confined space.

A confined space is

Any workspace which is not meant/design for human occupancy.
Any workplace where there are limit to the natural lighting.
Any workplace where the source of ventilation is compromised.
Any workplace where the point of exit is limited & the movement out of the workplace required restricted body movement.

Now, since you had identify that your workplace is a confined space, what are the items that you might want to focus on?

The workplace might face Oxygen deficient or enriched. (Typical oxygen level is between 19.5% - 23.5%)
Any release of flammable or toxic gas from the workplace? (e.g: methane, sulphur dioxide)
Sufficient ventilation in the confined space?
How many workers are allowed in the confined space? (This question could be very tricky)
Which type of lighting is allowed?

Knowing the potential problems, it's now to tackle them. How?

First, you will definitely need a portable gas meter (to measure the oxygen level, Carbon dioxide (CO2), Lowest Explosive Limit - Combustible gas (LEL - <10%) & Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S).
A adequate portable ventilation fan to provide ventilation to your confined space, with proper ducting.
Ensure that the workers enter the confined space with minimum of a buddy system. (The one will the portable meter shall enter the confined space & his buddy shall await at the entrance.

So, what is the proper procedures on entering a confined space?

Quite identical to all works, apply for a permit to enter a confined space from your safety officer / confined space assessor.
Before entering a confined space, ensure that the opening for the confined space are opened. Identify the types of cargo that are stored inside the confined space to evaluate on the potential hazards (e.g: types of hazardous gas).
Conduct an initial gas check with a gas meter to check on the oxygen level, carbon dioxide level & any present of hydrogen sulphide & combustible gas.
Shall any of the four parameters failed to meet the safe condition, connect the portable ventilation fan with ducting into the confined space & ventilate the area to a reasonable time. Preferable to conduct gas checks at every 30 mins interval.
Shall the gas meter identify that the confined space is well ventilated, enter the confined space in this order. First to go in, last to come out. The first person shall be the one who carried the portable gas meter. He/she shall wear the portable gas meter at least above 1m from his feet. He/she shall evacuate the group when he observed any danger indicate from the gas meter. He/she shall also be the last person to exit from the confined space.
Shall the confined space be previously contain any flammable or toxic substance, the confined space shall be scheduled for a every 3hr gas check. Other situation will be at an interval of 6hr. The records of the air level shall be recorded & display at the entrance of the confined space at all times together with the permit.
Once all work had been done, conduct a last check in the confined space, ensure that no tools & foreign materials are left in the area. Upon ensuring that the area is vacant, exit from the confined space & locked up the area. Inform your safety officer / confined space assessor to close the permit.

Shall anyone be had fainted or unconscious in the confined space, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO RESCUE HIM IMMEDIATELY. Conduct a gas check in the confined space to check for any deficiency or outrage on harmful gases. You may either enter the confined space when the area is free from danger OR enter the confined space with appropriate rescue gears such Self-Contained-Breathing-Apparatus (SCBA). Please ensure that you are well trained to conduct rescue before you attempt to conduct one.

Shall you required to know more about the legislated requirements, you may purchase a copy of CP 84 Code of Practice for Entry Into and Safe Working in Confined Space at Spring Singapore. Remember, work safe. Take no chance.

Risk Management - Produced by WSHAC

2009-06-12T15:01:00.003+08:00

Hot Work Assessor

2009-06-08T10:20:00.002+08:00

The demand for a Hot Work Assessor is extremely high, especially in the Oil&Gas (O&G) & Shipyard Industry. The reason is, a lot of cutting, welding, gouging, grinding of metal is involved in these two mentioned industry. A Safety Assessor certification can be obtained from NTUC LearningHub. So, what is the standard procedure?

Hot work permit will be raised by the supervisor responsible for the work in the daily safety committee meeting.
Hot work assessor will then check if any incompatible work conducted within the period of hot work. (eg: spray painting in the adjacent or in the actual tank). Coordinating the works will be recommended.
Hot work assessor will then conduct check on the location of hot work to be conducted. Ensure that you check not only at the actual location but also at the adjacent location.
Ensure that any fire protection requirements (e.g fire cloth) are in place before the work is allow to proceed.
If the cleaning job or fire-protection placement are unsatisfactory, reject the hot work permit. Request improvement before conducting the 2nd check.
Repeat step 4 & 5 until satisfactory.
Allow hot work in confined space for up to 7 days. Non-confined space for up to 14 days.
Supervisors are to renew the permits if expired. Expired hot work permits are not allowed to be use.
After the hot work had completed. The supervisor shall inform the Safety Committee & return the hot work permit to the Hot Work Assessor for record keeping.

So, is it very dangerous? Well, the answer will be yes if you are not willing to spend quality time in addressing the status of the area where hot work is going to be conducted. For example:

Cutting of vertical metal panel will require your full attention. You'll be surprise that the cutting sparks can fly or travel up to 15 metres or more. Mainly depends on the height of work to be conducted. Any oil, sludge residue or fuel fumes will be ignited if the sparks falls on it. Hence, proper & thorough cleaning is required. The greatest obstacles that you will be facing will be from the Project Engineer. He/she might attempt to save cost in cleaning the oil/sludge area & rush you to approve the work. Hence, you (as a safety officer) need to check & inspect until you feel confident & satisfied with the condition before you sign the hot work permit. Remember, once signed, you are responsible for any mishap occur from the hot work.

You might wanna note that a fire watch is mandatory required whenever a hot work is being conducted. The Fire watch shall be equip with a working fire extinguisher & to stand-by at the hot work area at all times. His duty is to extinguish any open flame that occur during the course of hot work. Notwithstanding, he's required to monitor the hot work after completion for a consecutive 4 hours.

So, that's the brief explanation of a Hot Work Assessor. I would recommend that conduct regular inspection of hot work to improve your judgement. In this field, experience is everything. It's perfectly alright to be extra careful. Don't let peer pressure get you. Remember, it's you who sign the permit. Not them. They just want to complete their job ASAP. Be firm! All the best to you.

Fire Safety @ Petrol Station

2009-06-06T13:59:00.004+08:00

Some Fire Safety video to share, courtesy from Youtube.

Hope that this video created some fire safety awareness. Cheers!!!

WSHC video - Worker who lost right arm in an accident

2009-06-05T11:22:00.003+08:00

Hi there,

Need some video to flash for safety promotion? Try this. This video from WSHC can help to create hand safety awareness.

Having headaches creating Risk Assessment for your workplace?

2009-06-04T19:37:00.002+08:00

Fret not my friend. I have just what you need to heal your headache. Click HERE.

Got this from MOM website. Take your time to digest it.

Cheers

Another tragic happened in Singapore (1 Jun 09)

2009-06-04T18:33:00.004+08:00

A foreign worker (China) had died from multiple fractures after been trapped in a machine at Yishun plastic factory on Monday (1 Jun 2009) night. For more infor, please view the attached newspaper cutting.

Forklift Safety

2009-06-02T20:22:00.002+08:00

Calculation of Incident Rate, Injury Severity Rate & Injury Frequency Rate

2009-06-02T14:39:00.004+08:00

Hi all,

I guess it's inevitable that one day, accident might happen in your workplace. May it be minor to major, as long as the incident is recordable (more than 3 days Medical Leave), your safety statistic will be affected. Your boss will be asking from you shortly, what is the updated Incident Rate, Injury Severity Rate or Injury Frequency Rate. Not very familiar to you? Well, here is how we calculate these 3 items.

1) Incident Rate = (No. of recordable injuries X 200,000) / No. of hours worked (since the last recordable injury)

*Recordable Injuries = Any work related injury or illness that requires more than first aid
treatment and/or results in loss of consciousness, restriction of work motion or transfer to another job.

2) Injury Severity Rate = (No. of loss time injuries X 1,000,000) / No. of hours worked (since the last injury)

*Loss time injury = Any work related injury or illness which prevents that person from doing any work day after accident.

3) Injury Frequency Rate = (No. of accident x 1,000,000) / No. of hours worked (since the last injury)

It's important that we, as a Safety Officer provides correct information to our employer on the correct definition of the terms used in Safety. We are the professionals right? The following treatments are considered first aid and are not to be counted as recordable injury cases:

• Non-prescription medication at non-prescription strength
• Tetanus immunizations
• Cleaning, flushing, soaking surface wounds
• Wound coverings, butterfly bandages, steri-strips (not closure devices such as sutures,
stitches or staples)
• Hot or cold therapy
• Non-rigid means of support
• Temporary immobilization device used to transport accident victims
• Drilling fingernail or toenail, draining fluid from blister
• Eye patches
• Removing foreign bodies from the eye with only irrigation or cotton swab
• Removing splinters or other foreign material from areas other than the eye by irrigation,
tweezers, cotton swabs or other simple means
• Finger guards
• Massages
• Fluids to relieve heat stress

These statistics are especially critical to MNC organization. Most of the data that you need for the calculations usually are easily retrieved from Human Resource Department. As a Safety Officer, it's always good to keep a regular update records of all the employees in your company. Information like date join, previous medical information, records of injuries, etc. could be very helpful during an incident investigation.

Hope that my information here helps someone out. As usual, work safety & GOD bless everyone.

Sharing of my experience for working in a Shipyard as a HSE Officer

2009-05-31T13:02:00.003+08:00

As mentioned before, my first career as a Safety Officer is working at a Shipyard (no mention of which). I would say the shipyard has a very comprehensive Safety Management System. Almost 95% of the risk assessment (RA) for works being conducted regularly had been covered. Perhaps the other 5% will be special or extraordinary works that rarely been done in the yard. Although the yard has a very detailed training for all new employee, you still need to work on the vessel to really know what the books are talking about. Some of the very simple yet difficult habit to change is to understand that the usual terms we use daily will be changed. For instant, the left & right is called Port & Starboard respectively. If you gonna tell or ask people where right & left is, immediately they know you are a newbie. Even the Indians or Bangladesh knows where Port & Starboard is. Another great obstacles to hop over is to know each & every individual name for the area of the vessel. Example, Forecastle Deck is the forward top-deck where the anchor winches are.... It's really a mouth-full. Serious. That's is mine very first & most difficulty obstacles that took me a few months of daily working (and been laugh at for making silly mistakes) to strengthen my vessel vocab.

Teamwork with the seniors Fire Fighters Supervisors are equally important without doubts. I learn hills of knowledge from them as well. I learned that there are some jobs that aren't that simple as they look like. You can't ignore them too. Safety First. Remember that by hard. There will be time when even though you are resting at home, suddenly, a thought on hot work or major work comes in your mind & you will become very restless. You wish you are in the yard instantly to oversee the whole process. You will have that uncertain feeling. Only to wish that everything is peaceful when you return to yard the next morning. And when you return to work the next morning & see that everything is peaceful, you will feel so glad & lucky. Well, you sure will promise yourself that you will conduct 100% check the next time. (*grinning*) Anyway, that's the kind of pressure you will getting & experiencing.

In total, I'd been on a total of 16 repair vessels during my 9 months stay in that shipyard. 3 of them are Maersk Line. They are the most tiring vessels as the owner / Captain are stingy. They don't allow us to use the lift. (For your infor, all Maersk Line Container Vessel are at least 15 storey high from Engine bottom to the monkey ladder) So I climb the stairs till me knees pain like shit. Well, that was that. Was fun yet physically shack-out!

In summary, working in a shipyard definitely have the fast practical learning cutting edge. Thru the fast pace in the yard, you learn fast too. The other plus point will be the bonus. Very lucrative. The dark side is, you work like there's no weekend, no rest day, no free time. If you are one who are very anti-social, no friends, play PC everyday... This career may be just nice for you. If you are thinking about working in a shipyard & got other question to ask, feel free to email to me. I'll try my best to answer. Have a great weekend! Cheers!!!

Guide to the WSHO Regulations

2009-05-28T18:21:00.003+08:00

Hi there,

I guess those who are new to this new profession or had been in this profession for sometime may not be certain on the actual responsibility and liability as a Registered Safety Officer. In a nutshell, as a Safety Officer, you must use the most practical & reasonable method (As Low As Reasonably Practical - ALARP) to ensure that the Health, Safety & Environment at the workplace is not compromised. For a more detailed explaination, click on HERE!

May this information be useful to you.

Have a great day ahead!!!

Cheers

What are the usual duties for a Registered Safety Officer

2009-05-25T19:52:00.002+08:00

Perhaps you might be asking "what are the usual duties as a Registered Safety Officer?" Well, the duties different from industry to industry.

Construction industry required the safety officer to double up as a Environment Control Officer (ECO)
Shipyard industry required the safety officer to double up as a Safety Assessor (Hot work assessor)
Manufacturing industry required the safety officer to double up as a Fire Safety Manager (FSM)

These are a few additional requirements/certification that you might want to consider to upgrade in order to fit into the employment criteria. All these courses can be found in our local education institution. ECO will be from NEA-SEI, Safety Assessor can be found in NTUC Learning Hub & FSM course can be found in Singapore Civil Defence Academy. I'd created a link at my homepage. Feel free to use them anytime.

Just my personal point of view, although it's important to have the relevant certificates to help getting yourself laid with a career, you might also like to consider getting auditing skill to escalate your chance further. Especially with recent increase number of company being certified with ISO 14001 & OHSAS 18001, it'll be beneficial to had gone thru some basic audit training.

Yes... ultimately, you will be spending some amount of money to upgrade yourself. It aren't cheap. Trust me. No pain no gain.

Introduction

2009-05-21T10:36:00.003+08:00

From the time I pen down this blog, I'd been working as a Safety Officer for a period of 2 years. So far, I'd worked in a shipyard & a manufacturing company. I'd yet worked in a construction company but I looking into it as the proposed salary is very tempting.

The main purpose for setting up this blog is because I really hope to help newbies. I remember the day I received my certificate from MOM, I had a mixture of feelings like, "a new start to a new career" & also "one leg standing in the prison". Well, the negative part is usually from media who jail & fine Safety Officers who make mistakes. Only on the later part, during my days in the shipyard, I learned that you (as a safety officer) are the person who make the difference. Everyone is bound to make mistakes but more importantly, we learned from mistakes. Enuff said, I'll try to include information of all kinds of possible courses which are very beneficial to all personnel who are interested in taking up Safety as a professional. Feel free to feedback, ask questions & I hope gurus out there can help us with it.