Does bizSAFE Level 3 prove a contractor is safe to work at height?
No. bizSAFE Level 3 shows that the company has had a risk management implementation audit by an MOM-registered auditing organisation, meaning risk assessments exist for its activities. It does not certify the specific crew, equipment or method on your job. MOM data for 2025 showed bizSAFE-certified firms accounted for 53% of fatal and major injury cases, and MOM has said certification alone does not yet produce better outcomes. Treat bizSAFE as a minimum filter, then check the job-specific plan.
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?
- 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?