What happens after a serious fall at my building?
The employer must notify MOM and file an incident report within 10 days; the occupier reports deaths of non-employees and dangerous occurrences. MOM may issue a stop-work order, which can halt all or part of the works until the hazards are rectified, and failure to comply carries a fine of up to S$500,000. MOM investigates all duty holders. The contractor accrues demerit points, and civil claims for negligence may follow against any party that owed a duty of care.
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?
- 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?