Are the penalties for work at height breaches higher now?
Yes. From 1 June 2024, MOM raised the maximum fine for WSH subsidiary legislation offences that are a major cause of serious harm from S$20,000 to S$50,000. Under the Work at Heights Regulations, most core duties now carry a fine of up to S$50,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both. The WSH Act's own general penalties remain up to S$500,000 for a company and S$200,000 or two years' jail for an individual.
From the RRD Field Guide, checked against the sources cited in Work at Height Law in Singapore: Owner, Occupier and MCST Liability Explained. General information, not advice for your project.
The fuller picture
In Singapore, anyone who controls premises (the occupier), employs workers, or engages contractors (a principal) carries duties under the Workplace Safety and Health Act 2006. The Work at Heights Regulations 2013 require guard-rails where a fall exceeds 2 m and a permit-to-work in factories, including construction worksites, where a fall exceeds 3 m. Breaches can cost up to S$50,000 per regulation offence.
More questions on this topic
- Is an MCST legally responsible if a contractor's worker falls from the roof?
- At what height do I need a permit-to-work in Singapore?
- What is the difference between a fall prevention plan and a permit-to-work?
- Does bizSAFE Level 3 prove a contractor is safe to work at height?
- What happens after a serious fall at my building?
- Can an MCST transfer all safety liability to the contractor by contract?
- What does 100% tie-off mean?