At what height do I need a permit-to-work in Singapore?
The Work at Heights Regulations define hazardous work at height as work where a person could fall more than 3 metres, including into a depth. A permit-to-work system is mandatory for that work in factories, a category that includes construction worksites and shipyards. Below 3 m, or outside factories, a formal permit is not mandated by the Regulations, but the general duties to avoid work at height where possible, train, supervise and guard open edges still apply. Many building managements require a permit for any roof or façade access anyway.
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?
- 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?
- Are the penalties for work at height breaches higher now?