WSH (Noise) Regulations 2011

Please refer to the Regulations for full details.


ARRANGEMENT OF REGULATIONS


PART I - PRELIMINARY
Regulation
1. Citation and commencement
2. Definitions
3. Application
PART II - NOISE CONTROL
4. Measures to reduce or control noise
5. Appointment of competent person to advise on noise control
6. Duty of manufacturers and suppliers of noisy machinery or equipment
PART III - NOISE MONITORING,HEARING PROTECTORS AND TRAINING
7. Noise monitoring
8. Hearing protectors
9. Training programme
PART IV - MISCELLANEOUS
10. Revocation

The Schedule

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PART I - PRELIMINARY
Citation and commencement
1. These Regulations shall come into operation on 1st September 2011.

‘‘responsible person’’, in relation to a relevant person, means —
(a) his employer; or
(b) the principal under whose direction the relevant person carries out the work in the workplace.

For the purposes of these Regulations —
(a) a person shall be deemed to be exposed to excessive noise, if the noise that he would be exposed to, when not wearing any hearing protector, exceeds —
(i) the permissible exposure limit for noise specified in the Schedule;
(ii) an equivalent sound pressure level of 85 dB(A) over an 8-hour work day, in any case where the noise is at a fluctuating sound pressure level; or
(iii) a peak sound pressure level exceeding 140 dB(C)


Application
These Regulations shall apply to every workplace where a person is exposed or is likely to be exposed to excessive noise caused by —
(a) any machinery or equipment used in the workplace; or
(b) any process, operation or work carried out in the workplace.

PART II - NOISE CONTROL
Measures to reduce or control noise
Duty of the occupier of a workplace to take measures to reduce or control the noise from any machinery or equipment used, so that no person at work in the workplace is exposed or is likely to be exposed to excessive noise.

Duty of the responsible person to take measures to reduce or control the noise from any process, operation or work carried on by him in a workplace, so that no person at work in the workplace is exposed or is likely to be exposed to excessive noise.

The measures referred to may include one or more of the following:

• replacing noisy machinery, equipment, processes, operation or work with less noisy machinery, equipment, processes, operation or work


• locating noise sources away from hard walls or corners


• isolating noise sources, so as to minimise the number of persons at work in the workplace who are exposed to the noise


• constructing suitable acoustic enclosures to contain noise emitted by machinery, equipment, processes, operation or work


• erecting an effective noise barrier larger in size than the noise source to provide acoustic shielding


• operating pneumatic machinery, equipment or tools at optimum air pressure to minimise noise emission and installing suitable pneumatic silencers at pneumatic line outlets


• installing mufflers at intake and exhaust openings that emit noise


• mounting vibrating machinery on vibration isolators or separate foundations


• isolating persons at work in the workplace in an acoustically shielded room or enclosure, where reduction of noise at the noise source is not practicable


• lining hard surfaces with acoustically absorbent materials to reduce noise reverberation


• isolating or reducing the size and vibration of vibrating surfaces or applying damping materials to vibrating surfaces


• reducing the height from which objects are allowed to fall or applying a resilient material at the point of impact or at the point of interaction of moving objects


• maintaining machinery and equipment at regular intervals to reduce noise emission.

Where it is not practicable to reduce the noise, it is the duty of the occupier of a workplace or the responsible person to limit the duration of time persons at work in the workplace are exposed to the noise so that such persons are not exposed to excessive noise.

Appointment of competent person to advise on noise control
Where there are 50 or more relevant persons employed or working in a workplace, it shall be the duty of the occupier of the workplace to appoint a competent person to advise on all proper
noise control measures.

Duty of the competent person - ensure that his advice on the noise control measures is adequate, suitable and effective.
Ooccupier of a workplace to implement such measures as advised by the competent person.


Duty of manufacturers and suppliers of noisy machinery or equipment

• furnish, to the person to whom the machinery or equipment is supplied, such information as the Commissioner may require concerning the sound level which is likely to be generated by the machinery or equipment; and


• indicate, by means of a sign or label on the machinery or equipment —
  (i) the need to wear hearing protectors when exposed to the noise from the machinery or equipment; and
  (ii) such other information as the Commissioner may require.

PART III - NOISE MONITORING, HEARING PROTECTORS AND TRAINING

Noise monitoring

Where there are 10 or more relevant persons employed, occupier of the workplace to cause noise monitoring to be carried out at least once every 3 years, or earlier if any change in machinery, equipment, process, operation, work, control or other condition is likely to cause persons to be exposed to excessive noise.

Ooccupier of the workplace to —
(a) appoint a competent person to carry out noise monitoring;
(b) not later than 14 days after receiving the report from the competent person, communicate
the contents of the report to all relevant persons;
(c) not later than 30 days after the carrying out of the noise monitoring, submit a copy of the report to the Commissioner; and
(d) keep the report available for at least 10 years.

Competent person to :

• carry out noise monitoring using —
  (i) recognised methods;
  (ii) accepted standard procedures; and
  (iii) suitable equipment which is properly calibrated to ensure accuracy;


• properly interpret the results of noise monitoring;


• prepare a report of the results of noise monitoring; and


• submit the report to the occupier of the workplace not later than 14 days after the carrying out of noise monitoring.

Hearing protectors
The responsible person to provide suitable hearing protectors to every relevant person.

Duty of the responsible person to ensure that any hearing protectors provided shall —
(a) correctly fit the user;
(b) attenuate the exposure of the user to sound pressure levels below 85 dB(A);
(c) be compatible with the job requirements of the user; and
(d) not prejudice the health and safety of the user.

The responsible person to establish and implement procedures to ensure that —
(a) hearing protectors are properly issued and maintained; and
(b) every relevant person —
(i) uses hearing protectors; and
(ii) is instructed in the proper use of the hearing protectors.

Occupier of a workplace to ensure that warning signs are posted at all entrances to or at the periphery of all areas of the workplace in which any person is exposed or is likely to be exposed to excessive noise.


Training programme
Responsible person to institute a training programme for every relevant person.
Responsible person to ensure that the training programme includes instruction in the following:
(a) the relevant provisions of the Act and these Regulations;
(b) the effects of noise on hearing;
(c) the purpose of hearing protectors;
(d) the advantages, disadvantages and attenuation of various types of hearing protectors;
(e) the selection, fitting, use and care of hearing protectors; and
(f) the purpose of hearing tests and the appropriate procedures and requirements of such tests.

Responsible person to conduct the training programme for every relevant person —
(a) within 3 months of that person first commencing work in the workplace; and
(b) at least once every 12 months.

For Noise Monitoring services, click here

Workplace Safety and Health (Confined Spaces) Regulations 2009

1. These Regulations into operation on 1st November 2009.
2. Please refer to the actual regulation for the complete requirements.
3. confined space
   any chamber, tank, manhole, vat, silo, pit, pipe, flue or other enclosed space, in which —
   dangerous gases, vapours or fumes are liable to be present to such an extent as to involve a risk of fire or explosion, or persons being overcome thereby;
   the supply of air is inadequate, or is likely to be reduced to be inadequate, for sustaining life; or
   there is a risk of engulfment by material;
4. hazardous atmosphere
   an atmosphere where —
   the level of oxygen in the atmosphere is not within the range of 19.5% to 23.5% by volume;
   the level of flammable gas or vapour in the atmosphere is 10% or more of its lower explosive limit; or
   the levels of toxic substances in the atmosphere exceed the permissible exposure levels as specified in the First Schedule to the Workplace Safety and Health (General Provisions) Regulations
5. Application
   These Regulations apply in relation to confined spaces in workplaces.
6. Record of confined spaces in factory
   Where a fixed and stationary confined space is sited in a factory, to —
   make a record of the description and location of the confined space; and
   inform persons who are liable to be exposed to the hazards of the confined space, of the existence and hazards of the confined space.
7. Access to and egress from confined space
   To take measures to ensure that the means of entry into and egress from any confined space in the workplace are safe and without risks to the health of every person entering or leaving it.
8. Opening of entrance cover of confined space
   the entrance cover of the confined space is not removed unless the confined space is depressurised and rendered safe for opening; and
   when such entrance cover is removed, the opening to the confined space is barricaded or guarded by railings or other effective means, to prevent any person or object from falling into the confined space.
9. Lighting in confined space
   To ensure that there is sufficient and suitable lighting for entry into or work in the confined space.
10. Ventilation in confined space
    To ensure that the ventilation in the confined space complies with this regulation.
    Adequate and effective ventilation shall be maintained in the confined space for the purposes of entry into and work in the confined space.
    The air supply for the ventilation shall be —
    (a) from a source free from contaminants; and
    (b) directed to the area where a person is or will be present in the confined space.
    Where exhaust ventilation is used, the exhaust air from the ventilation system shall be exhausted to a location outside the confined space where it does not present a hazard to any person.
11. Implementation of confined space entry permit
    Before any person enters or works in a confined space, it is the duty of his responsible person to —
    appoint an authorised manager for the confined space
    appoint a confined space safety assessor for the confined space; and
    ensure that a confined space entry permit has been issued in respect of the entry into or work in the confined space which specifies —
    (i) the description and location of the confined space;
    (ii) the purpose of entry into the confined space;
    (iii) the results of the gas testing of the atmosphere of the confined space; and
    (iv) its period of validity.
12. No entry into or work in confined space without evaluation and confined space entry permit
13. Application for confined space entry permit
    An application for a confined space entry permit shall —
    be made by the supervisor of the person who is to enter or work in the confined space;
    be made in such form and manner as may be required by the authorised manager for the confined space;
    state the measures which will be taken to ensure the safety and health of persons who enter or carry out the work in the confined space; and
    be addressed to the authorised manager and submitted to the confined space safety assessor for the confined space.
14. Evaluation of confined space entry permit
    On receipt of the application for a confined space entry permit, the confined space safety assessor shall test the atmosphere of the confined space prior to entry by any person into the confined space.
    The confined space safety assessor shall—
    use a suitable and properly calibrated instrument;
    conduct the test in the following sequence:
    (i) test for level of oxygen content;
    (ii) test for level of flammable gas or vapour; and
    (iii) test for concentration of toxic gas or vapour, where applicable;
    conduct the test in a manner that will not endanger himself or others; and
    record the results of the test in the confined space entry permit.
    If the confined space safety assessor is satisfied that entry into or work in a confined space can be carried safely, he shall endorse the application for the confined space entry permit and forward the endorsed application to the authorised manager for the confined space.
    The confined space safety assessor must exercise all due diligence when performing his functions in relation to the testing, evaluation and endorsement of an application for a confined space entry permit
15. Issue of confined space entry permit
    The authorised manager for a confined space may issue a confined space entry permit in respect of entry into or work in the confined space if the authorised manager is satisfied that —
    the level of oxygen in the confined space is within the range of 19.5% to 23.5% by volume;
    the level of flammable gas or vapour in the confined space is less than 10% of its lower explosive limit;
    the levels of toxic substances in the atmosphere of the confined space do not exceed the PEL as specified in the First Schedule to the WSH (General Provisions) Regulations;
    the confined space is adequately ventilated;
    effective steps have been taken to prevent any ingress of dangerous gases, vapours or any other dangerous substances into the confined space; and
    all reasonably practicable measures have been taken to ensure the safety and health of persons who will be entering or working in the confined space.
    The authorised manager must retain a copy of the confined space entry permit.
    The authorised manager must exercise all due diligence when issuing a confined space entry permit.
    If the entry or work in the confined space is not completed within the validity period of the permit, a fresh application shall be made.
16. Posting of confined space entry permit
    Duty of the supervisor to —
    clearly post a copy of the permit at the entrance to the confined space, including where reasonably practicable, a sketch of the area within the confined space where the entry is to be made or work is to be conducted; and
    ensure that the copy of the permit is not removed until —
    - the date of expiry of the permit;
    - the revocation of the permit; or
    - the person entering or working in the confined space has left the confined space after achieving the purpose of the entry or completing the work, as the case may be,
    whichever is the earliest.
17. Monitoring to ensure safety and health of worker during entry into or work in confined space
18. Periodic testing of atmosphere
    the atmosphere in the confined space is tested by a confined space safety assessor at intervals as is necessary to evaluate the safety and health of the person entering or working in the confined space;
    if there are 2 or more persons present in the confined space, at least one of them continuously monitors the atmosphere in the confined space with a suitable gas detector; and
    if a hazardous atmosphere in a confined space is detected —
    all persons in the confined space shall vacate the confined space immediately;
    an evaluation is made to determine how the hazardous atmosphere developed; and
    no person re-enters the confined space until a new confined space entry permit is issued by the authorised manager for the confined space.
19. Duty to report incompatible work
    It shall be the duty of any person who is aware of any work being carried out in a workplace in which a confined space is sited whichis incompatible with any other work being carried out in the confined space, to immediately report the incompatible work to his supervisor, the workplace safety and health officer, the workplace safety and health co-ordinator or the authorised manager for the confined space.
20. Review and revocation of confined space entry permit
    The authorised manager for a confined space who has issued a confined space entry permit must review and assess the need for entry into or work in the confined space on a daily basis and revoke the permit if he thinks fit to do so.
    If, after issuing a confined space entry permit, the authorised manager is of the view that the carrying out of the work in the confined space poses or is likely to pose a risk to the safety and health of persons entering or working in the confined space, he may order all persons to leave the confined space immediately and all work in the confined space to cease immediately, and revoke the confined space entry permit.
    The authorised manager—
    may revoke a confined space entry permit in respect of a confined space if he is satisfied that —
    (i) the entry or work in the confined space has been completed; or
    (ii) the entry or work in the confined space cannot be continued for a significant period of time; and
    shall revoke the relevant confined space entry permit.
21. Warning sign
    The occupier of any workplace in which a confined space is sited must clearly post a notice at the entrance to the confined space to warn persons of the hazards of the confined space unless —
    a copy of the confined space entry permit in respect of the confined space is posted there; or
    there is no entrance which persons may use to enter the confined space.
22. Display of name or identification badge
    It shall be the duty of a person entering a confined space to display his name and identification badge at the entrance to the confined space; and it shall be the duty of his responsible person to ensure that he does the same.
23. Training of workers and supervisors
    It shall be the duty of the responsible person of a person entering or working in a confined space to ensure, before such entry or work, that the person has first received adequate safety and health training for the purpose of familiarising himself with the hazards associated with such entry into or work in the confined space and the precautions to be observed.
    Where any person conducts oversight or supervisory work in a confined space, it shall be the duty of his responsible person to ensure that the person has first received adequate safety and health training to ensure that the work which the person oversees or supervises can be carried out safely.
24. Appointment and duties of confined space attendant
    The responsible person of a person entering or working in a confined space must appoint a confined space attendant before such entry or work.
    The confined space attendant to remain outside the confined space in order to —
    monitor persons entering and working in the confined space;
    maintain regular contact with the persons in the confined space and when necessary assist them to evacuate should the need arise; and
    alert the persons appointed to carry out rescue work in the event of an emergency
25. Rescue operation
    establish a written rescue plan for the purpose of rescuing persons in the confined space in the event of an emergency;
    appoint persons to carry out rescue work and ensure that such persons have first received adequate training in rescue operation including first-aid and the proper use of personal protective equipment and other equipment necessary for carrying out a rescue operation in the confined space; and
    ensure that there is a sufficient supply of suitable breathing apparatus, safety harness and ropes, suitable rescue equipment and suitable reviving apparatus which are —
    (i) kept readily available;
    (ii) properly maintained; and
    (iii) thoroughly examined by a competent person at least once a month or at such other intervals as the Commissioner may require.
    The records must be kept for not less than 2 years.
26. Offences
    Except as otherwise provided in this regulation, any person who contravenes any provision of these Regulations shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction —
    in the case where the person is an individual, to a fine not exceeding $20,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years or to both;
    in any other case, to a fine not exceeding $20,000.
    Any person who contravenes confined space entry permit - fine not exceeding $20,000
    Any person who contravenes regulation on identification / attendant - fine not exceeding $1,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $5,000.

New WSQ Forklift Operator Course from 1 Oct 2009

28 Sep 2009 (OSH Alert)

Currently, any person who operates a forklift is required to complete the Forklift Driver's Training Course which at present is accredited by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). From 1 October 2009, the WSQ 'Operate Forklift' Competency Standard will replace the Forklift Driver's Training Course, which will cease to run wef 30 September 2009.

The new WSQ Operate Forklift Competency Standard was developed by the the industry and facilitated by the Singapore Workforce Development Agency (WDA), MOM and the Workplace Safety and Health Council. This industry-endorsed standard provides a competency-based approach to training forklift operators. Trainees have to demonstrate their skills and knowledge proficiency before they are considered as qualified forklift operators.

Accreditation is put in place to ensure that the course is delivered by quality training organisations using qualified trainers and assessors. It also ensures that the approved course satisfies the competency requirements of the WSQ system and appropriate delivery modes are used. Approved Training Organisations (ATOs) are also required to continuously improve the quality of the design and delivery.

The new WSQ 'Operate Forklift' course will be offered by ATOs accredited by WDA. Existing forklift operators who have already completed the Forklift Driver's Training Course accredited by MOM will continue to be considered as qualified forklift operators.
For more information on the WSQ Operate Forklift Competency Standard, please click link.

Singapore Standard SS 586:2008 Hazard Communication for Hazardous Chemicals and Dangerous Goods

Singapore Standard SS 586:2008 Hazard Communication for Hazardous Chemicals and Dangerous Goods
Part 1: Transport and Storage of Dangerous Goods
Part 2: Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) - Singapore's adaptations
Part 3: Preparation of Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

The SS 586 series of standards is the result of the revision of SS 286 : 1984, ‘Caution labelling for hazardous substances’ (5 parts) and CP 98 : 2003, ‘Preparation and use of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)’.

The Specification for hazard communication for hazardous chemicals and dangerous goods comprises the following three parts, which are complementary to one another:
Part 1 : Transport and storage of dangerous goods,
Part 2 : Globally harmonised system of classification and labelling of chemicals – Singapore’s adaptations, and
Part 3 : Preparation of Safety Data Sheets (SDS).

SS 586 : Part 1 provides information and guidance on the classification of dangerous goods by the types of hazards they present. It also provides information on standard hazard communication labels. This part applies to the storage and transportation of dangerous goods by road in Singapore, which includes carriages in bulk, tank-vehicles, vehicles with demountable tanks as well as by vehicles carrying dangerous goods in packages. The transportation of dangerous goods by sea and air is subject to the requirements of International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and International Air Transport Association (IATA) / International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) respectively and is not covered in this standard.

SS 586 : Parts 2 and 3 provide guidance for the implementation of the Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) and Preparation of Safety Data Sheets in Singapore.

GHS is an international system for the classification of chemicals by the types of hazards they present. It provides information on standard hazard communication elements including labels and SDS. The GHS helps to ensure that information on physical hazards, health hazards and environmental hazards from chemicals is made available, in order to enhance the protection of human health and the environment during the handling, transport, and use of these chemicals. The GHS also provides for the global harmonisation of rules and regulations on the classification, labelling and SDS of chemicals.

Time frame for SS 586 Implementation:
Manufacturers & Suppliers: 2 years for single substances till end 2010; 4 years for mixtures till end 2012
End users: 3 years for single substances till end 2011; 5 years for mixtures till end 2013
Transport Emergency Information Panels: 2 years for replacement of existing SS286 compliant transport emergency information panels till end 2010

If you want to learn more about Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), click on the link below:

http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/ghs/ghs_rev02/02files_e.html

Revised WSH (Registration of Factories) Regulations to effect new Factory Notification Scheme

From 1 November 2008, the new WSH (Registration of Factories) Regulations 2008 will come into operation.

The new Regulations puts into effect a new factory notification scheme announced by Acting Minister for Manpower. The new scheme will replace the Factory Registration system for 66% of factories.
Two main features of the scheme are:

1. To strengthen the management of workplace risksUnder this new scheme, employers will have to declare that they have implemented Risk Management (RM) in the workplaces before they can commence work. This new declaration makes it necessary for employers to be even more actively involved in ensuring the implementation of RM.
2. To streamline the registration process to a free one-time notification effortThe registration process has been streamlined significantly. Instead of registering every one or two years, the notification will be a one-time effort which is easily done online. As a result, there are significant savings in administrative costs, which will be passed on to the industry.

Factory notification will be free of charge. Nearly 14,000 registered factories with lower risk activities will immediately benefit from the changes, with annual savings of $3.5 million.

At the moment, this scheme will not be implemented for higher risk factories. They are construction worksites, shipyards, metalworking companies, wafer fabrication, petrochemical, chemical and pharmaceutical plants. These higher risk factories will continue to be governed by the existing factory registration system while MOM reviews the process. Consultation with these factories on proposed changes will be carried out next year.

WSH Committee Regulations 2008

In exercise of the powers conferred by sections 29 and 65 of the Workplace Safety and Health Act, Mr Gan Kim Yong, Senior Minister of State, charged with the responsibility of the Minister for Manpower, hereby makes the following Regulations:

PART I - PRELIMINARY

Citation and commencement
1. These Regulations may be cited as the WSH (Workplace Safety and Health Committees) Regulations 2008 and shall come into operation on 1st September 2008.
Definitions
2. In these Regulations, unless the context otherwise requires —
‘‘chairman’’ means the chairman of a workplace safety and health committee
‘‘member’’ means a member of a workplace safety and health committee and includes a chairman
‘‘secretary’’ means the secretary of a workplace safety and health committee appointed under regulation 5(2) or deemed to be appointed under regulation 5(1);
‘‘workplace safety and health committee’’, in relation to a factory, means the workplace safety and health committee appointed under regulation 4(2)(a) in respect of the factory.
Application
3. These Regulations shall apply in relation to every factory in which 50 or more persons are ordinarily at work, excluding persons who carry out any work which is of a temporary nature and is not ordinarily carried out in the factory.

PART II - FORMATION OF WSH COMMITTEE
Appointment of workplace safety and health committee and chairman
4.—(1) For the purposes of section 29(1) of the Act, a workplace safety and health committee shall be appointed in respect of every factory to which these Regulations apply.
(2) It shall be the duty of the occupier of such a factory to appoint, in respect of the factory —
(a) a workplace safety and health committee; and
(b) a person as a chairman of the workplace safety and health committee, being a person whom the occupier reasonably believes is competent to perform the functions and duties of its chairman.
Appointment of secretary
5.—(1) Where there is a person appointed as the workplace safety and health officer of a factory, he shall be deemed to be appointed as the secretary of the workplace safety and health committee of that factory.
(2) Where no person is appointed as the workplace safety and health officer of a factory, it shall be the duty of the occupier of the factory to appoint, from among the members of the workplace safety and health committee of the factory, a person to be its secretary.
Composition of workplace safety and health committee
6. It shall be the duty of the occupier of a factory to ensure that —
(a) the workplace safety and health committee of the factory consists of members who are representatives of persons at work in the factory and of the management of the factory; and
(b) at all times, the number of members who are representatives of the persons at work in the factory is not less than those who are representatives of the management of the factory.

PART III - MEETINGS OF WSH COMMITTEE
Meetings
7.—(1) It shall be the duty of the occupier of a factory to take, so far as is reasonably practicable, such measures to ensure that the workplace safety and health committee of the factory meets at least once a month to discuss matters relating to the safety and health of persons at work in that factory.
(2) No person shall prevent any member from attending any meeting of his workplace safety and health committee that is held during working hours.
(3) No person shall make any deduction from the salary of any member for being absent from work for the purpose of attending any meeting of his workplace safety and health committee.
Minutes of meeting
8.—(1) It shall be the duty of the secretary of the workplace safety and health committee of a factory to furnish a copy of the minutes of every meeting of the workplace safety and health committee of the factory to every member thereof and to the occupier of the factory.
(2) It shall be the duty of the occupier of a factory to —
(a) keep a copy of such minutes in the factory for inspection by any inspector; and
(b) furnish a copy of such minutes to the Commissioner at any time when required by the Commissioner.
Non-member may attend meetings
9. A workplace safety and health committee of a factory may invite any person employed in the factory who has suffered bodily injury as a result of any accident or dangerous occurrence which took place in the factory to attend any meeting of the committee to discuss the accident or dangerous occurrence.
Matters to be discussed at meetings
10. At any meeting of a workplace safety and health committee of a factory, only matters relating to the safety and health of persons at work in the factory shall be discussed.

PART IV - FUNCTIONS OF WSH COMMITTEE
General inspection of factory
11.—(1) It shall be the duty of the occupier of a factory to take, so far as is reasonably practicable, such measures to ensure that the workplace safety and health committee of the factory inspects the factory at least once a month to see if necessary measures are taken to ensure the safety and health of persons at work in the factory.
(2) Following every inspection of the factory under paragraph (1), it shall be the duty of the chairman of the workplace safety and health committee of the factory to ensure that the workplace safety and health committee —
(a) discusses the observations of the members during the inspection at its next meeting; and
(b) records in a report —
(i) its opinion in respect of the lack of any measure, or any deficient measure, taken to ensure the safety and health of persons at work in the factory; and
(ii) its recommendations on the actions to be taken in the factory to ensure the safety and health of persons at work in the factory.
Inspection of factory after accident or dangerous occurrence
12.—(1) Where any accident or dangerous occurrence has taken place in any factory —
(a) it shall be the duty of the occupier of the factory to take, so far as is reasonably practicable, such measures to ensure that the workplace safety and health committee of the factory immediately carries out an inspection of the factory; and
(b) it shall be the duty of the workplace safety and health officer appointed in respect of the factory (if one has been appointed) to immediately conduct an investigation into the accident or dangerous occurrence and furnish the chairman of the workplace safety and health committee of the factory with a report of the findings of his investigation.
(2) After an inspection has been carried out in accordance with paragraph (1)(a) of a factory where an accident or a dangerous occurrence has taken place, it shall be the duty of the chairman of the workplace safety and health committee of the factory to ensure that the workplace safety and health committee of the factory —
(a) holds a meeting to discuss the observations of the members during the inspection and the report of the workplace safety and health officer referred to in paragraph (1)(b), if any; and
(b) records in a report —
(i) its opinion in respect of the lack of any measure, or any deficient measure, taken to ensure the safety and health of persons at work in the factory so far associated with the condition of the factory and the cause of the accident or dangerous occurrence; and
(ii) its recommendations on the actions to be taken in the factory to ensure the safety and health of persons at work in the factory.
Action to be taken on report of workplace safety and health committee
13.—(1) It shall be the duty of the chairman to furnish every report of his workplace safety and health committee referred to in regulation 11(2)(b) or 12(2)(b) to the occupier of the factory.
(2) It shall be the duty of the occupier of the factory, as soon as is reasonably practicable after receiving any report furnished under paragraph (1), to do the following:
(a) discuss the recommendations of the workplace safety and health committee with the workplace safety and health officer (if one has been appointed) or the chairman;
(b) record in the report the occupier’s decision; and
(c) direct any person at work in the factory to take such action as the occupier thinks necessary in the interests of the safety and health of persons at work in the factory.
(3) It shall be the duty of the occupier of the factory to keep a copy of every report furnished under paragraph (1) in the factory.
Workplace safety and health committee to assist in organising certain activities to promote safe conduct of work in factory
14. The workplace safety and health committee of a factory may assist in organising any contest, competition or other activity for the purpose of promoting the safe conduct of work in the factory.
Guidelines to promote safe conduct of work in factory
15.—(1) The workplace safety and health committee of a factory shall, with the approval of the occupier of the factory, issue a set of guidelines to promote the safety and health of persons at work in the factory.
(2) The guidelines may, with the approval of the occupier of the factory, be amended or revoked by the workplace safety and health committee.
(3) It shall be the duty of the occupier of the factory to publish a copy of the guidelines, and all amendments made to the guidelines, in such manner as will secure adequate publicity at the factory for the guidelines.
Basic knowledge of members of workplace safety and health committee
16. It shall be the duty of the occupier of a factory to take, so far as is reasonably practicable, such measures to ensure that the members of the workplace safety and health committee have a basic understanding and knowledge of the functions and duties of a workplace safety and health committee under the Act.
Powers of workplace safety and health committee
17. The workplace safety and health committee of a factory shall, for the purposes of discharging its functions and duties under the Act, have the power to do all or any of the following:
(a) to enter, inspect and examine the factory at any reasonable time;
(b) to inspect and examine any machinery, equipment, plant, installation or article in the factory;
(c) to require the production of factory records, certificates, notices and documents kept or required to be kept under the Act, including any other relevant document, and to inspect
and examine any of them;
(d) to make such examination and inquiry of the factory and of any person at work in that factory as may be necessary to execute its duties;
(e) to assess the levels of noise, illumination, heat or harmful or hazardous substances in the factory and the exposure levels of persons at work therein;
(f) to investigate any accident, dangerous occurrence or occupational disease that occurred within the factory.

PART V - MISCELLANEOUS
Offences
18. Any person who contravenes regulation 4(2), 5(2), 6, 7(1), (2) or (3), 8(1) or (2), 11(1) or (2), 12(1) or (2), 13(1), (2) or (3), 15(3) or 16 shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction —
(a) for a first offence, to a fine not exceeding $10,000; and
(b) for a second or subsequent offence, to a fine not exceeding $20,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months or to both.
Revocation
19. The Factories (Safety Committees) Regulations (Cap. 104, Rg 2) are revoked.
Savings and transitional provisions
20.—(1) Every person who, immediately before 1st September 2008, is the chairman or secretary or a member of a safety committee of a factory under the revoked Factories (Safety Committees) Regulations (Cap. 104, Rg 2) shall continue in such capacity as if he were the chairman or secretary or a member, as the case may be, of a workplace safety and health committee appointed under these Regulations in respect of that factory.
(2) These Regulations shall not affect any inspection or investigation commenced or pending before 1st September 2008, and every such inspection or investigation may be continued and everything which is or is to be done pursuant to every such inspection or investigation may be done in all respects after that date as if these Regulations had not been enacted.

WSH Committee Regulations

WORKPLACE SAFETY AND HEALTH ACT (CHAPTER 354A)
WSH (WORKPLACE SAFETY AND HEALTH COMMITTEES) REGULATIONS 2008

ARRANGEMENT OF REGULATIONS
PART I PRELIMINARY
Regulation
1. Citation and commencement
2. Definitions
3. Application
PART II
FORMATION OF WORKPLACE SAFETY AND HEALTH COMMITTEE
4. Appointment of workplace safety and health committee and chairman
5. Appointment of secretary
6. Composition of workplace safety and health committee
PART III
MEETINGS OF WORKPLACE SAFETY AND HEALTH COMMITTEE
7. Meetings
8. Minutes of meeting
9. Non-member may attend meetings
10. Matters to be discussed at meetings
PART IV
FUNCTIONS OF WORKPLACE SAFETY AND HEALTH COMMITTEE
11. General inspection of factory
12. Inspection of factory after accident or dangerous occurrence
13. Action to be taken on report of workplace safety and health committee
14. Workplace safety and health committee to assist in organising certain activities to promote safe conduct of work in factory
15. Guidelines to promote safe conduct of work in factory
16. Basic knowledge of members of workplace safety and health committee
17. Powers of workplace safety and health committee
PART V MISCELLANEOUS
18. Offences
19. Revocation
20. Savings and transitional provisions

Workplace Safety and Health Act to Cover Six New Sectors from 1 March 2008

With effect from 1 March 2008, six new sectors will be covered under the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Act.
The WSH Act is targeted at cultivating good safety habits and practices in all persons at a workplace - from top management to workers. It requires every individual at workplace to take reasonable practical steps to ensure the safety and health of every person at work at the workplace. The extension will contribute to the long-term plans to raise WSH standards across all industries in Singapore.
The six new sectors are as follow:

1. Healthcare Activities
2. Veterinary Activities
3. Hotels, Food and Beverage Sectors
4. Water Supply, Sewerage and Waste Management Activities
5. Landscape Care and Maintenance Service Activities
6. Services allied to Transportation of Goods

MOM update on Tower Crane Collapse at NUS

Preliminary investigations by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) into the crane collapse on 22 Feb 2008 revealed that the four anchors located at the base of the crane had failed structurally. This resulted in the entire structure toppling over. Preliminary findings also suggest that the crane was not lifting any load at the time of collapse.

The accident killed three workers and injured two others. While the investigation into the cause of the crane collapse is in progress, Ministry of Manpower (MOM) inspectors have started checks on similar tower cranes.
The inspectors will also conduct spot checks on other types of tower cranes.
Companies found to have contravened safety and health laws are liable to be prosecuted under the Workplace Safety and Health Act which carries a maximum fine of $500,000.
Please see this link for the MOM press release.

The tower crane involved is a saddle-jib type (hammer head) with a mast height of 37m, boom length of 60m, and having a maximum lifting capacity of 12 tons.

The Workplace Safety and Health Advisory Committee (WSHAC) has issued a press release to remind all stakeholders, including employers and employees, to take all necessary measures to safeguard the lives of everyone at work. WSHAC has also introduced measures to improve crane operations.

(Extracted from OSH Alert, 28 Feb 2008)

Crane collapse kills 3 at NUS worksite

THREE construction workers died when the boom from a 72-tonne crane came crashing down at a work-site on the National University of Singapore (NUS) campus.
Two of the workers were pinned under the massive steel structure, while the third was hit on the head, according to the Singapore Civil Defence Force.
The tragedy happened at about 2.15pm and the victims were pronounced dead by paramedics who arrived about 15 minutes later.
Two of the three were Singaporeans: 46-year- old Mohamad Homsen, believed to be the crane operator, and a 41-year-old worker whose name was not released yesterday. Rescuers, using power tools and airbags, took 45 minutes to extricate the two men’s bodies.
The third man who died was found is lying on the ground beside the crane. He was a 44-year-old China national, whose name was also not made public.
Two other workers from China were hurt while trying to escape as the 60m-high crane toppled to the ground. They suffered cuts and bruises and were taken to the National University Hospital. All five workers were employed by sub-contractors on the site.
The firms were redeveloping the area around the three storey NUS Society Kent Ridge Guild House, with work scheduled for completion in April.

(Source: The Straits Times, 23 Feb 2008)

Aerial Lifts (Cherry Pickers) - Safety Tips

Aerial lifts include boom-supported aerial platforms, such as cherry pickers or bucket trucks. The major
causes of fatalities are falls, electrocutions, and collapses or tip overs.


Safe Work Practices

• Ensure that workers who operate aerial lifts are properly trained in the safe use of the equipment.
• Maintain and operate elevating work platforms in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
• Never override hydraulic, mechanical, or electrical safety devices.
• Never move the equipment with workers in an elevated platform unless this is permitted by the manufacturer.
• Do not allow workers to position themselves between overhead hazards, such as joists and
  beams, and the rails of the basket. Movement of the lift could crush the worker(s).
• Maintain a minimum clearance of at least 10 feet, or 3 meters, away from the nearest overhead lines.
• Always treat powerlines, wires and other conductors as energized, even if they are down or appear to be insulated.
• Use a body harness or restraining belt with a lanyard attached to the boom or basket to prevent the worker(s) from being ejected or pulled from the basket.
• Set the brakes, and use wheel chocks when on an incline.
• Use outriggers, if provided.
• Do not exceed the load limits of the equipment. Allow for the combined weight of the worker, tools, and materials.
  
  OSHA 3267-09N-05
  U.S. Department of Labor
  www.osha.gov (800) 321-OSHA

WSH (Construction) Reg 2008

The WSH (CONSTRUCTION) REGULATIONS 2007 replaces the BOWEC w.e.f. 1 Jan 2008.

The contents of the regulation are as follows:

PART I - PRELIMINARY
1. Citation and commencement
2. Definitions
3. Application

PART II - SAFETY & HEALTH MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENT
4. Safety and health management system
5. Site coordination meeting
6. Workplace safety and health co-ordinator
7. Duties of workplace safety and health co-ordinator
8. Powers of workplace safety and health co-ordinator
9. Safety and health training

PART III - PERMIT-TO-WORK SYSTEM
10. Application of this Part
11. Implementation of permit-to-work
12. No high-risk construction work without permit-to-work
13. Application for permit-to-work
14. Evaluation of permit-to-work
15. Issue of permit-to-work
16. Posting of permit-to-work and supervisor’s duty
17. Monitoring of work
18. Duty to report incompatible work
19. Revocation of permit-to-work

PART IV - GENERAL PROVISIONS
20. Structures and supports
21. Stability of structures
22. Falling hazards
23. Work on roofs
24. Storage and placement of materials and equipment
25. Protection against falling objects
26. Slipping hazards
27. Hazards arising from protruding objects
28. Vehicular hazards
29. Runways and ramps
30. Entry into building under construction
31. Safe means of access and egress between different working levels in building or structures
32. Lighting
33. Personal protective equipment

PART V - ELECTRICAL SAFETY
34. Electrical power circuits
35. Installation of electric wiring and power lines
36. Bare wires and exposed live conductors
37. Residual current circuit breakers and overcurrent protective devices
38. Prohibition on use of fuse
39. Welding sets
40. Industrial plug and socket-outlet
41. Distribution board and socket-outlet assembly
42. Electrical installations and equipment used underground or in confined space

PART VI - LADDERS
43. Construction
44. Resting surface and prevention against slipping
45. Landing place

PART VII - CANTILEVERED & MATERIAL PLATFORMS
46. Cantilevered and material platform
47. Guard-rails and toe-boards
48. Use of wire rope
49. Inspection by designated person

PART VIII - DISPOSAL OF MATERIALS
50. Accumulation of debris
51. Method of removal of debris, etc.
52. Floor openings for debris removal
53. Chutes
54. Construction of chutes
55. Debris collection area
56. Design of chute by professional engineer

PART IX - FORMWORK STRUCTURES
57. General duty on occupier
58. General requirement
59. Supports and shores
60. Appointment of formwork supervisor
61. Duties of formwork supervisor
62. Register
63. Design and construction of formwork structure
64. Duties of professional engineer on formwork structure
65. Concrete work
66. Dismantling
67. Steel reinforcement
68. Reshoring

PART X - DEMOLITION
69. General duty on occupier
70. Preparation of demolition work
71. Protection of adjacent structures
72. Removal of load bearing structures
73. Demolition of walls, partitions, etc.
74. Access to floor
75. Barricades, catch platforms and warning signs
76. Mechanical method of demolition

PART XI - EXCAVATION & TUNNELLING WORKS
77. General requirements on excavation work
78. Duties of professional engineers on excavation
79. Access and egress from excavation
80. General duty on occupier
81. Stability of tunnelling work
82. Ventilation
83. Illumination level
84. Access to and egress from tunnel or shafts
85. Plant and ancillary equipment
86. Means of communications
87. Tampering with fittings
88. Training
89. Rescue team
90. Fire-fighting facilities and procedure

PART XII - COMPRESSED AIR ENVIRONMENT
91. General duty on occupier
92. Safe system of work
93. Warning notices
94. Use of bulkhead
95. Plant and ancillary equipment
96. Supply of air
97. Power source
98. Temperature and humidity
99. Means of communications
100. Appointment of competent person for compressed air works
101. Identification badges
102. Conditions for person working in compressed air environment
103. Condition for multiple entries in compressed air environment
104. Prohibition on consumption of alcohol and smoking
105. Man-locks
106. Compression and decompression procedure and use of man-lock
107. Medical locks
108. Man-lock and medical lock attendants
109. Attendance at man-lock
110. Attendance at medical lock
111. Appointment of medical practitioner
112. Resting facilities and first-aid room
113. Maintenance of records
114. Training of personnel

PART XIII - EXPLOSIVES
115. General duty on employer and principal
116. Handling of explosives
117. Smoking, open lights, etc.
118. Opening packages
119. Deepening holes
120. Size of holes
121. Removing cartridge wrappers
122. Loading near other operations
123. Loading and tamping
124. Work of firing of any blast
125. Warning and retreat
126. Return to blast area
127. Misfires
128. Operations during thunderstorm

PART XIV - PILING
129. Stability of adjacent structures
130. Inspection
131. Pile driver not in use
132. Pile testing
133. Footing

PART XV - CRANES, EMPLOYEE’S LIFTS & MATERIAL HANDLING MACHINERY
134. Strength and stability
135. Capacity chart
136. Thorough examination and inspection
137. Handling of suspended loads
138. Prohibition on riding on loads
139. Cranes or machinery at rest
140. Operators of employee’s lift

PART XVI - MISCELLANEOUS
141. Offence
142. Revocation

For details, refer to the relevant regulation.

Four Workers Convicted For Fraudulent Claims Under Workmen's Compensation Act

(Extracted from MOM website)
13 August 2007

The Ministry of Manpower has stepped up enforcement to deter abuse of the workmen's compensation system. This year, four workers were prosecuted for making fraudulent claims under the Workmen's Compensation Act (WCA). They were convicted and jailed ranging from four to six weeks for attempting to claim work injury compensation though they were not injured in the course of work.

Workmen's compensation claims only for work-related Injuries
Under the Workmen's Compensation Act, workmen are eligible for compensation for work-related injuries. However for those who attempt to cheat by submitting false claims, stern action including prosecution will be taken against them. At the same time, those who have abetted in the offence either by intentional aid, instigation or conspiracy will also face the same punishment as the worker, if convicted. Anyone who is convicted faces a maximum fine of $2000 and/or up to 3 months' jail for each charge.

Case 1
On 24 October 2005, a construction worker submitted a workmen's compensation claim through his employer, an electrical engineering works company. He reportedly injured his left knee on 28 September 2005, when he fell down a staircase while working at a construction site.
Key Investigation Findings
Investigations revealed that the medical evidence was inconsistent with the worker's account of the alleged accident. Evidence from a co-worker also established that the worker had fabricated the alleged accident.
Prosecution action
Based on investigations, MOM prosecuted the worker for twice attempting to deceive the Ministry by making a false claim under the WCA. He pleaded guilty to two charges of giving false information and was sentenced to 4 weeks in jail on 9 January 2007.

Case 2
On 4 April 2005, a marine worker lodged a workmen's compensation claim with MOM for an injury sustained during work on 2 September 2004. He claimed that he injured his right hand and wrist when he fell from a staging while using a hydro jet to wash the sides of a vessel.
Key Investigation Findings
Investigations revealed that the worker was actually injured after falling off a bicycle when outside the worksite and not during the course of work.
Prosecution action
MOM prosecuted the worker on 6 Feb 2007 for two counts under WCA for giving answers to the Commissioner of Labour which he knew to be untrue. He was subsequently found guilty of both charges and was sentenced to 5 weeks jail per charge to run concurrently.

Case 3
On 18 Sept 2006, a construction worker lodged a workmen's compensation claim with MOM through his lawyer, claiming injury sustained on 3 Oct 2005 while working at a house renovation project. According to the accident report, he fell off a ladder when he was standing on the ladder to fix glass panels to the roof. He claimed that he lost his balance as the ladder was wobbly.
Key Investigation Findings
Investigations revealed that the worker had fabricated the alleged accident. Evidence from the employer and a co-worker established that the worker was not even at work on the day of the alleged accident.
Prosecution action
MOM charged the worker on 4 May 2007 for 2 counts under WCA for giving answers to the Commissioner of Labour which he knew to be untrue. He guilty of both charges on 14 May 2007 and was sentenced to 4 weeks in jail based on 2 weeks per charge, to run consecutively.

Case 4
On 12 Oct 2006, a construction worker lodged a workmen's compensation claim with MOM through his lawyer claiming that he was injured on 7 Oct 2006 while alighting from his lorry outside his quarters after work. The worker claimed that he slipped and fell onto the road, injuring the back of his head, upper left shoulder and lower left leg.
Key Investigation Findings
Investigations revealed that the worker's injuries were in fact suffered in the course of a fight with his co-worker and not due to an accidental slip while alighting from the company lorry.
Prosecution action
MOM charged the worker on 26 Apr 2007 for two counts under WCA for giving answers to the Commissioner of Labour which he knew to be untrue. He pleaded guilty on 23 May 2007 and was sentenced to 6 weeks per charge to run concurrently.

Dangerous Occurrence at a Worksite

A dangerous occurrence took place at a construction worksite recently. While lifting a bundle of rebars, a truck-mounted mobile crane toppled towards a building under construction.
The occupier was told to investigate into the dangerous occurrence and to conduct risk assessment for all lifting operations.

Lifting equipment is the second highest contributor of workplace deaths in 2006. In the first half of this year, 7 workers, accounting for 28% of total workplace fatalities, were killed in lifting equipment accidents.
Amongst these fatal cases, about half of the employers had failed to conduct risk assessment (RA).

Even those with some form of RA failed to ensure that the control measures were effective or implemented. Investigations also revealed that many of these cases lacked proper on-site supervision to ensure that proper safe work procedures had been implemented.

(Source: MOM OSH Alert, dated 21 Aug 2007)

MOM provides $8 million top-up to Risk Management Assistance Fund (RMAF)

Set up in April 2006 to help Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) build risk management capabilities, the first $5 million of the RMAF has been fully committed to some 800 SMEs.

To allow more SMEs to benefit from the scheme and implement risk management successfully, MOM will provide a $8 million top-up to the fund. The top-up would be $2 million per year for the next 4 years till 2011. The funding cap per company has also been reduced from $7,500 to $3,500.

FIRST SENTENCE UNDER THE NEW WSH ACT

The new Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Act saw its first sentence in April 2007. Leelloyds Marine Engineering Pte Ltd was fined S$100,000 and Mr. Low Lye Wah (Supervisor) was sentenced to three months’ imprisonment.

Struck by Falling Objects - Dislodged Suspended Bag Claimed Worker's Life!
5 March 2006, 11.40am - after finishing their shift duty on board a bulk carrier vessel, four workers of Leelloyd and the supervisor, Low Lye Wah (Low) were preparing to pack their work tools and transfer them onto a ferry boat alongside the vessel. Low was responsible for rigging and lowering four bags of loads from the vessel onto the boat 15 meters below.

The first three loads were lowered to a reasonable height of about 1m from the boat deck before the boat was steered near the vessel for the workers on the boat to pull the load onto the boat. However, Low did not wait for the boat to move away from the shipside as he lowered the fourth load. Instead he started to lower the fourth load while a worker was trying to untie the third load. This put the workers on the boat beneath a suspended load and exposed them to the risk of being struck by falling objects. Subsequently, the fourth load weighing about 15 kg came loose from the rope's knot and fell a distance of about 10m, hitting a worker James Balang on the head. James Balang succumbed to his injuries in hospital on the same day.

Findings of Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) Investigation
1. The method of lowering the fourth load from 15 m above the boat deck was unsafe as it was carried out using the other end of the rope while another worker on the boat was trying to untie the third load on the same rope. This exposed the workers on the boat beneath to the risk of being hit by falling object.
2. The supervisor Mr. Low Lye Wah is a trained lifting supervisor and a qualified rigger. He was therefore, fully aware of the safe work procedures and precaution needed and understood the danger that his actions posed to the workers. Instead, his reckless act had endangered the safety of the workers, when it was incumbent upon him as the supervisor to look out for their safety. This reckless act of him has resulted in the death of his worker.
3. The company Leelloyds had previously implemented safe work procedures when working on another similar project. Even though it was familiar with the safe work procedure, it did not take reasonably practical measures to ensure the safety of the workers in this incident.

Summary of the case
While lowering work tools using a rope tied to a bag from a bulk carrier vessel onto a boat, the 15 kg load came loose from the rope's knot and fell a distance of about 10m, hitting a worker James Balang on the head. He succumbed to his injuries in hospital on the same day.

The Sentence
Leelloyds Marine Engineering Pte Ltd was fined S$100,000 and Mr. Low Lye Wah (Supervisor) was sentenced to three months’ imprisonment under the new WSH Act in April 2007.

Advisory Note(Please note that the advisory note is provided for the benefits of enhancing workplace safety and health, in no way the information is to be misconstrued as implying any liability on any party)

1. Investigations into the accident revealed that one of the root causes of the accident was the lack of proper planning and supervision of the tasks being performed. All employers and contractors are advised not to be complacent during any lifting operation. All lifting operations should be properly planned by a competent person before the actual execution.
2. Under the WSH (Risk Management) Regulations, comprehensive risk assessment shall be conducted for all work processes to eliminate or control risk through detailed plans/procedures for work to be carried out. Arising from the risk assessment, appropriate safe work procedures shall be developed and implemented. Risk Assessment guidelines and other relevant references are available at the MOM Website and WSHAC Website.
3. It is essential for risks to be eliminated or reduced “at source”. If a risk cannot be controlled completely by engineering measures, it is necessary to protect the employees by administrative control or personal protection. The control of hazards and reduction of risks for the above accident can be accomplished by following the Hierarchy of Control.
a) Engineering Controls
Engineering controls are physical means to limit the hazard. These include structural changes to the work environment or work processes, erecting a barrier to interrupt the transmission path between the worker and the hazard.
- All tools and other items should be lifted or lowered using the ship’s crane or derrick or other safe and effective means. These loads and items should be placed in sling bags that are designed to carry loads of specific capacity.
- The sling bag can be anchored directly onto the crane’s hook or attach to the hook by proper lifting gear, thereby eliminating the need for a tying knot.
- All statutory lifting equipment and lifting gears must be inspected and certified safe for use by an Authorised Examiner for lifting equipment. Lifting equipment must not be loaded beyond its safe working load under any circumstances except for the purpose of testing and examination by the Authorised Examiner.
b) Administrative Controls
These reduce or eliminate exposure to a hazard by adherence to procedures or instructions. Documentation should emphasize all the steps to be taken and the controls to be used in carrying out the activity safely.
- Workers who are on board the ferry should stay in the cabin until the load is lowered at the deck level. Enforce the ruling that no one is allowed to stand below any suspended load.
- Effective communication through hand signals, voice communication, loud hailers or sign languages must be maintained at all times between the parties concerned during lowering or hoisting of any load.
- Qualified Lifting supervisors who have successfully completed a training course approved by MOM must be appointed by the occupier before the commencement of any lifting operations involving the use of any cranes.
c) Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
This should be used only as a last resort, after all other control measures have been considered, or as an additional protective measure.
- Suitable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be provided and used by the workers. Safety helmet approved by an accredited testing body must be worn whenever there are hazards of falling objects.

(Extracted from OSH Alert dated 11&12 June, 2007)

Fire on Storage Tank

A flash fire occurred at the ground level of two storage tanks containing marine slop oil. This resulted in a flashback which ignited one of the tanks and ruptured its tank top.
A worker who was working within the proximity of the tanks suffered serious burns and subsequently succumbed to his injuries.

Advisory Note- tips for safe storage of flammable chemicals(Please note that the advisory note is provided for the benefits of enhancing workplace safety and health, in no way the information is to be misconstrued as implying any liability on any party)

1. All storage tanks designed and constructed for containing flammable liquids shall conform to acceptable Singapore or International Standards.
2. Fixed storage tanks containing flammable liquid should be equipped with pressure-vacuum vents to allow for changes in pressure due to filling or withdrawal of product and to breathing of the tank due to atmospheric changes. This minimises vapour emission to the environment.
3. Floating roof tanks can be used for storage of flammable liquid to minimise product loss and fire and explosion hazards.
4. Storage tanks should be earthed. This helps prevent a static electrical discharge which might start a fire during filling or decanting.
5. No source of ignition (e.g. open flames, hot surfaces and sparks) shall be allowed at the storage area. Electrical installations and appliances in such area shall be of explosion-proof type.
6. Suitable fire fighting equipment or facilities shall be readily available to contain or mitigate any possible fire.
7. A risk assessment (RA) shall be conducted and safe work procedures (SWP) shall be developed for all work activities.
8. Workers shall be informed about the risk and hazards involved, and shall be trained in RA and SWP. They shall also be trained on and drilled in emergency response and spillage control.
9. Appropriate personal protective equipment (e.g. respirators, goggles, gloves and aprons) may be required to ensure the health and safety of workers working in such premises.

(Extracted from OSH Alert dated 25 June 2007)

Validity of CSOC and SSIC Certificates

Based on revised requirements, the validity of course certificates for the Construction Safety Orientation Course (CSOC) and Shipyard Safety Instruction Course (SSIC) issued to workers will depend on their period of employment in Singapore. A worker with less than 6 years work experience will be issued with a 2-year certificate while a worker with 6 years or more relevant work experience will be issued with a 4-year certificate.

With effect from 2 July 2007, employers and employment agencies can check via the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website URL link if their employees have attended the above courses and if they will be issued with certificates valid for 2 or 4 years. This information can then be conveyed to the ATP to facilitate the issuance of the certificates.

Three workers died in flash fire at a heat exchanger

A fatal workplace accident took place this year while a group of workers were de-blinding a pipe of a heat exchanger when flammable liquid suddenly flowed out from the pipe. The workers attempted to dilute the liquid with water but a fire broke out and engulfed the area near the heat exchanger. 3 workers were killed.

Advisory Note for blinding or de-blinding work(Please note that the following advisory note is provided for the benefit of enhancing workplace safety and health and in no way should the information be misconstrued as implying any liability on any party)

De-blinding is the process of removing metal plates inserted in-between pipe segments. The metal plates are usually inserted to prevent flow of substances from one part of the piping system to another part of the system.
1. Conduct risk assessments and establish safe work procedures for blinding and de-blinding of pipes during maintenance of process equipment. Factors such as valve leakages should be considered in the risk assessment. Click HERE to download the Fire Risk Assessment Guide produced by the National Fire Prevention Council of Singapore (NFPC).
2. Establish effective emergency procedures in response to events such as unintended chemical release or fire.
3. Ensure that fire escape routes are readily accessible.
4. Ensure that fire fighting equipment and containment for chemical spillage are readily available.
5. Ensure that sources of ignition such as hot surfaces or hot work are not present in the vicinity where blinding, de-blinding or pipe dismantling work is carried out.

(Extracted from OSH Alert dated 2 July 2007)

WSH (Workplace Safety and Health Officers) Regulations

The WSH (Workplace Safety and Health Officers) Regulations will take effect on 1 August 2007.

The Regulations will replace three subsidiary legislations under the former Factories' Act:
(a) Factories (Qualifications and Training of Safety Officers) Notification;
(b) Factories (Registration and Duties of Safety Officers) Regulations; and
(c) Factories (Safety Officers) Order.

The key change in the new regulations is the removal of the distinction between a full-time and part-time WSH officer. It adopts an outcome-based approach where occupiers decide on the extent of appointment for the WSH officers, whether part-time or full-time.

Workplaces required to appoint a WSH officer are stipulated in the Second Schedule of the Regulations, including:
(a) Shipyards in which any ship, tanker and other vessels are constructed, reconstructed, repaired, refitted, finished or broken up;
(b) Factories used for processing petroleum or petroleum products;
(c) Factories in which building operations or works of engineering construction of a contract sum of $10 million or more are carried out; and
(d) Any other factories in which 100 or more persons are employed, except those which are used for manufacturing garments.

(Extracted from OSH ALert dated 17 July 2007)