News

Workplace Safety Trends: A Rise in Fatalities

Posted on by CK Chai
02
Sep
Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) reported 43 workplace deaths in 2024—a 19% increase from 2023. Notably, the fatality rate rose to 1.2 per 100,000 workers, reversing progress from 2023’s historic low of 0.99. Leading causes included vehicular incidents, suffocation, and structural collapses. High-risk sectors like construction, transport/storage, and marine industries contributed 80% of fatalities, highlighting urgent safety gaps.

Industry-Specific Risks: Key Sectors Under Scrutiny

Construction Sector: Despite safety campaigns, deaths rose to 20 in 2024. For example, fatalities occurred at major sites like the North-South Corridor.

Marine Industry: After zero deaths in 2023, five fatalities in workplace occurred in 2024, linked to unsafe diving practices. MOM now mandates commercial-grade equipment for divers.

Transport & Storage: Nine deaths underscored logistics risks. Smaller sectors like manufacturing also faced incidents, urging broader safety reforms.

MOM’s Strategic Interventions: Tackling Complacency

Senior Minister Zaqy Mohamad linked rising fatalities to complacency. Key measures include:

  1. Tighter Diving Permits: Banning scuba gear for commercial diving.
  2. Increased Inspections: Targeting marine, construction, and manufacturing sectors in 2025.
  3. Video Surveillance: Real-time analytics to detect unsafe behaviors.

While major injuries dipped slightly to 587, slips, falls, and machinery risks persist.

Progress and Challenges: Sector-Specific Results

Manufacturing: Metalworking injuries dropped 20% due to stricter inspections.
Construction: Smaller projects improved, but large sites saw deaths double to 13.

Mr. Zaqy emphasized collaboration over regulation: “Proactive risk management must balance safety and productivity,” he stated during a Chevron Oronite visit.

The Road Ahead: Prioritizing Prevention

MOM’s 2024 data demands urgent action. Companies must adopt safety systems, training, and technology like video analytics. Enforcement will intensify—17,000+ inspections and $3.1M fines in 2024 signal stricter compliance.

Industries must prioritize safeguards, from diving protocols to machinery upgrades, to protect workers and maintain competitiveness.

Conclusion: Building a Safer Future

Singapore’s safety goals require innovation and accountability. At Safetyware, we support MOM’s vision with tailored solutions for high-risk environments. Together, we can transform data into action—ensuring every worker’s right to safety.

📘 Explore our catalogue? Click HERE

Any Questions? Contact Us:

📩 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.safetyware.com
📞 Contact us: WhatsApp