Issuing Authorities:
Ministry of Manpower (MOM) & Building and Construction Authority (BCA)
Category:
BIM | Worksite Safety | Workplace Safety & Health (WSH)
Status:
Ongoing Implementation
Policy Overview
Between 2024 and 2025, the Singapore Government introduced multiple rounds of reforms to construction site safety (WSH), requiring contractors to significantly strengthen on-site safety management.
Key focus areas include:
- More stringent safety training requirements
- Stricter Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) enforcement
- Mandatory accident reporting
- Higher penalties for non-compliance
- Enhanced management of site equipment (scaffolding, lifts, cranes, etc.)
- Expanded responsibilities for Safety Coordinators and WSHE Officers
Key New Safety Requirements
1. Mandatory PPE for All Personnel on Site
All personnel entering construction sites must wear full PPE, including safety helmets, gloves, and eye protection.
This applies to:
- Work Permit (WP) holders
- S Pass holders
- Foremen
- Site supervisors
- Management staff entering the site
Failure to comply will result in official records and fines imposed on the company.
2. Additional Training Required for High-Risk Activities
Workers engaged in high-risk operations must complete additional certified training, including:
- Working at height
- Scaffolding erection and dismantling
- Crane operations
- Hot works / welding
- Confined space operations
Workers without proper training are not allowed to commence work.
3. Mandatory Accident and Incident Reporting
All of the following must be reported to MOM:
- Injuries
- Minor accidents
- Near-miss incidents
Failure to report may result in:
- Fines
- Issuance of a Stop Work Order (SWO)
4. Expanded Responsibilities of WSHE Officers
WSHE Officers are now required to take on broader responsibilities, including:
- Conducting on-site process inspections
- Supervising PPE compliance
- Overseeing worker safety training
- Managing site safety documentation
- Leading accident investigations and reporting
Industry Impact
- Increased manpower and compliance costs for construction companies
- Higher penalties for safety violations
- Greater responsibility placed on site supervisors and foremen
- Construction schedules must now account for mandatory safety checks and inspections
BUILD360 Professional Recommendations
To remain compliant and reduce operational risk, BUILD360 advises companies to:
- Implement daily safety inspection routines
- Establish clear and enforceable PPE usage standards
- Use digital systems to record safety training and certifications
- Conduct advance planning for high-risk areas (e.g. boiler rooms, lift shafts, confined spaces)
- Strengthen foreman-led safety supervision to meet regulatory expectations
