(incorporating the amendments as stipulated in WSH (First-Aid) (Amendment) Regulations 2011)
The changes are highlighted in blue.
ARRANGEMENT OF REGULATIONS
1. Citation and commencement
2. Definition
3. Application
4. Provision of first-aid boxes
5. First-aiders
6. First-aid room
7. First-aid for exposure to toxic or corrosive substances
8. Offences
Citation and commencement
The amendments shall come shall come into operation on 10th September 2011.
Definitions
2. In these Regulations, unless the context otherwise requires—
‘‘first-aid’’ means —
(a) in cases where a person needs help from a medical practitioner or nurse, treatment for the purpose of preserving life and minimising the consequences of bodily injury until such help is obtained; or
(b) treatment of minor bodily injury which does not require treatment by a medical practitioner or nurse;
‘‘hospital’’ means any premises used or intended to be used for the reception, lodging, treatment and care of persons who require medical treatment or care or who suffer from any disease, injury or disability of mind or body, and includes a maternity home and a nursing home;
‘‘medical clinic’’ means any premises used or intended to be used by a medical practitioner, a dentist or any other person —
(a) for the diagnosis or treatment of persons suffering from, or believed to be suffering from, any disease, injury or disability of mind or body; or
(b) for curing or alleviating any abnormal condition of the human body by the application of any
apparatus, equipment, instrument or device requiring the use of electricity, heat or light, but does not include a hospital;
‘‘medical practitioner’’ means a registered medical practitioner under the Medical Registration Act who has in force a practising certificate issued under that Act.
Application
3. These Regulations shall not apply to —
(a) any hospital; and
(b) any medical clinic.’’
Provision of first-aid boxes
4.— (1) Every workplace shall be provided with a sufficient number of first-aid boxes.
(2) Where a workplace is located in a building, each floor of the building shall be provided with a sufficient number of first-aid boxes.
(3) Every first-aid box provided in a workplace shall —
(a) be adequately equipped;
(b) be properly maintained;
(c) be checked frequently to ensure that it is adequately equipped and that all the items in it are usable;
(d) be clearly identified as a first-aid box;
(e) be placed in a location that is well-lit and accessible; and
(f) be under the charge of a person appointed by the occupier of the workplace.
First-aiders
5.—(1) Where more than 25 persons are employed in a workplace, there shall be appointed in the workplace as first-aiders who shall be readily available during working hours such number of persons as complies with the ratio of one first-aider for every 100 persons employed in the workplace or part thereof.
(2) Every person appointed as a first-aider under paragraph (1) shall —
(a) have successfully completed a training course acceptable to the Commissioner; and
(b) undergo such subsequent re-training in first-aid treatment as the Commissioner may require.
(3) Where there is a shift work schedule in a workplace, the ratio of the number of first-aiders available on each shift to the number of persons employed at work on that shift shall comply with the ratio specified in paragraph (1).
(4) Every first-aider shall maintain a record of all treatment rendered by him.
(5) A notice shall be affixed in every workplace stating the names of the first-aiders appointed under paragraph (1).
First-aid room
6. Unless otherwise permitted by the Commissioner in writing, where there are more than 500 persons at work in a workplace, there shall be provided and maintained a first-aid room of such standard as may be approved by the Commissioner.
First-aid for exposure to toxic or corrosive substances
7.—(1) Where any person in a workplace may be exposed to toxic or corrosive substances, the occupier of the workplace shall make provision for the emergency treatment of the person if so required by the Commissioner.
(2) Where the eyes or body of any person in a workplace may come into contact with toxic or corrosive substances, the occupier of the workplace shall ensure that suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body are provided and properly maintained within the work area for emergency use.
Offences
8. Any —
(a) occupier of a workplace who fails to ensure that regulation 4, 5 (1), (2), (3) or (5), 6 or 7 is complied with in relation to the workplace; or
(b) first-aider who contravenes regulation 5 (4), shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000.
The First and Second Schedules are deleted.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
WSH (MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS) REG 2011
Arrangement of Regulations
1. Citation and commencement
These Regulations shall come into operation on 10th September 2011.
2. Definitions
3. Application
PART II - MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS OF PERSONS EMPLOYED IN HAZARDOUS OCCUPATIONS
4. Persons to be medically certified fit for employment
5. Periodic medical examinations
6. Other medical examinations
7. Medical expenses to be borne by responsible person
8. Registers of employees in hazardous occupations
9. Designated workplace doctor to report results of medical examinations to employers
10. Designated workplace doctor may recommend suspension from work
11. Designated workplace doctor may inspect place of work
PART III - REGISTRATION TO ACT AS DESIGNATED WORKPLACE DOCTORS
12. Application for registration as designated workplace doctor
13. Certificate of registration
14. Register of designated workplace doctor
15. Suspension and cancellation of approval
16. Surrender of certificate
PART IV - MISCELLANEOUS
17. Offence
18. Revocation
19. Savings and transitional provision
The Schedule
For the complete Regulations, click here
1. Citation and commencement
These Regulations shall come into operation on 10th September 2011.
2. Definitions
3. Application
PART II - MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS OF PERSONS EMPLOYED IN HAZARDOUS OCCUPATIONS
4. Persons to be medically certified fit for employment
5. Periodic medical examinations
6. Other medical examinations
7. Medical expenses to be borne by responsible person
8. Registers of employees in hazardous occupations
9. Designated workplace doctor to report results of medical examinations to employers
10. Designated workplace doctor may recommend suspension from work
11. Designated workplace doctor may inspect place of work
PART III - REGISTRATION TO ACT AS DESIGNATED WORKPLACE DOCTORS
12. Application for registration as designated workplace doctor
13. Certificate of registration
14. Register of designated workplace doctor
15. Suspension and cancellation of approval
16. Surrender of certificate
PART IV - MISCELLANEOUS
17. Offence
18. Revocation
19. Savings and transitional provision
The Schedule
For the complete Regulations, click here
WSH (MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS) REG 2011 - Part II (MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS OF PERSONS EMPLOYED IN HAZARDOUS OCCUPATIONS)
Application
3. These Regulations shall apply to all workplaces in which persons are employed in any hazardous occupation, being any occupation involving —
(a) the use or handling of or exposure to the fumes, dust, mist, gas or vapour of arsenic, cadmium, lead, manganese or mercury or any of their compounds;
(b) the use or handling of or exposure to the liquid, fumes or vapour of benzene, perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene, organophosphates or vinyl chloride monomer;
(c) the use or handling of or exposure to tar, pitch, bitumen or creosote;
(d) the use or handling of or exposure to the dust of asbestos, raw cotton or silica;
(e) exposure to excessive noise; or
(f) any work in a compressed air environment.
Persons to be medically certified fit for employment
4.—(1) Duty of the responsible person of a person who is to be employed in any hazardous occupation described in regulation 3(a) to (e) to ensure that the person shall undergo a pre-placement medical examination by a designated workplace doctor and be certified fit to work in such occupation, not later than 3 months after the date he commences his employment in such occupation.
(2) Duty of the responsible person of a person who is to be employed in the hazardous occupation described in regulation 3(f) to ensure that the person shall be medically examined by a designated
workplace doctor and certified fit to work in such occupation within 30 days before the date he is to commence his employment in such occupation.
(3) The medical examination referred to in paragraph (1) or (2) shall —
(a) consist of the examinations and investigations specified in the Schedule and such other examinations or investigations as the Commissioner may require from time to time in any
particular case; and
(b) include —
(i) a clinical examination of the person for symptoms and signs of any diseases that may result from exposure to the hazards of the occupation in which the person is employed; and
(ii) an assessment as to whether the person who is to be employed in a hazardous occupation is fit to work in that occupation.
Periodic medical examinations
5.—(1) Duty of the responsible person of a person employed in any hazardous occupation to ensure that the person shall be periodically examined by a designated workplace doctor.
(2) The periodic medical examinations referred to in paragraph (1) shall —
(a) consist of the examinations and investigations specified in the Schedule;
(b) include —
(i) a clinical examination of the person for symptoms and signs of any diseases that may result from exposure to the hazards of the occupation in which the person is employed; and
(ii) an assessment as to whether the person who is employed in a hazardous occupation is fit to continue working in that occupation; and
(c) take place at the intervals specified in the Schedule.
(3) Notwithstanding paragraph (2), the Commissioner may, in cases where he considers expedient, require any person to be examined at intervals other than or in addition to those specified in the Schedule.
Other medical examinations
6.—(1) The Commissioner may require any person or category of persons employed in any hazardous occupation to undergo a medical examination other than or in addition to the medical examinations referred to in regulations 4 and 5.
(2) Where a person employed in any hazardous occupation is required to undergo any audiometric examinations, it shall be the duty of the responsible person of that person to ensure that the audiometric examinations shall be carried out by persons who have undergone a course of training in audiometric screening acceptable to the Commissioner.
(3) Any responsible person who contravenes paragraph (2) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Medical expenses to be borne by responsible person
7.—(1) Duty of the responsible person of a person who is employed or to be employed in any hazardous occupation —
(a) to arrange, at the expense of the responsible person, all medical examinations and investigations that the person employed or to be employed in any hazardous occupation is
required to undergo under these Regulations; and
(b) to grant paid leave of absence to that person required to undergo any medical examination or investigation under these Regulations.
(2) Duty of any person who is required to undergo any medical examination or investigation under these Regulations to ensure that he shall submit himself for such medical examination and investigation.
(3) Any person who contravenes paragraph (2) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Registers of employees in hazardous occupations
8.—(1) Duty of the responsible person of a person or persons employed in any hazardous occupation in a workplace to keep registers of such persons.
(2) The responsible person shall ensure that the registers referred to in paragraph (1) are —
(a) kept in such form and manner as may be required by the Commissioner;
(b) updated at all times such as to show at any time, the particulars of all persons who are currently employed in any hazardous occupation in the workplace and all the persons who had or have been employed in the hazardous occupation in the workplace in the last 5 years; and
(c) be produced for inspection upon request by an inspector.
(3) Any person who contravenes paragraph (1) or (2) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $10,000.
Designated workplace doctor to report results of medical examinations to employers
9.—(1) Duty of the designated workplace doctor to report the results of the medical examination of a person employed in any hazardous occupation in a workplace to the responsible person of
that person.
(3) The responsible person of a person employed in any hazardous occupation shall —
(a) keep the report of every medical examination of that person employed in a hazardous occupation for a period of at least 5 years from the date of the medical examination; and
(b) whenever required by the Commissioner within the period referred to in sub-paragraph (a), make available to the Commissioner the report or a summary of the report, as the Commissioner may specify.
(4) Any person who contravenes paragraph (1), (2) or (3) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $10,000.
Designated workplace doctor may recommend suspension from work
10.—(1) Where a designated workplace doctor, having regard to the results of the medical examination carried out under these Regulations, is satisfied that the health of a person is likely to be or has been injuriously affected by the person’s employment in a hazardous occupation, it shall be the duty of the designated workplace doctor to advise the person that he —
(a) should not continue to be employed in that occupation; or
(b) be suspended from his work in such hazardous occupation temporarily for such period of time, as may be determined by the designated workplace doctor or permanently.
(2) Where the designated workplace doctor advises that a person employed in a hazardous occupation be suspended from employment in such hazardous occupation, it shall be the duty of the designated workplace doctor to —
(a) complete a certificate of suspension in such form and manner as may be determined by the Commissioner; and
(b) give a copy of the certificate of suspension to that person who is to be suspended from employment in a hazardous occupation, the responsible person concerned and the Commissioner.
(3) It shall be the duty of the responsible person of the person named in the certificate of suspension referred to in paragraph (2) to suspend the person from his work in the hazardous occupation.
(4) Any person named in the certificate of suspension referred to in paragraph (2) or the responsible person may, within 14 days from the date of the certificate of suspension, appeal to the Commissioner against it and the Commissioner’s decision shall be final.
Designated workplace doctor may inspect place of work
11.—(1) Duty of the occupier of a workplace to provide all facilities to the designated workplace doctor to inspect the premises of the workplace and any process or work in or on which a person being examined by the designated workplace doctor under these Regulations is or is to be employed.
(2) Duty of the responsible person of a person who is employed in any hazardous occupation in a workplace and the occupier of that workplace to provide the designated workplace doctor with all information which is relevant and within their joint knowledge to enable the designated workplace doctor to carry out a proper medical examination of such person under these Regulations.
3. These Regulations shall apply to all workplaces in which persons are employed in any hazardous occupation, being any occupation involving —
(a) the use or handling of or exposure to the fumes, dust, mist, gas or vapour of arsenic, cadmium, lead, manganese or mercury or any of their compounds;
(b) the use or handling of or exposure to the liquid, fumes or vapour of benzene, perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene, organophosphates or vinyl chloride monomer;
(c) the use or handling of or exposure to tar, pitch, bitumen or creosote;
(d) the use or handling of or exposure to the dust of asbestos, raw cotton or silica;
(e) exposure to excessive noise; or
(f) any work in a compressed air environment.
Persons to be medically certified fit for employment
4.—(1) Duty of the responsible person of a person who is to be employed in any hazardous occupation described in regulation 3(a) to (e) to ensure that the person shall undergo a pre-placement medical examination by a designated workplace doctor and be certified fit to work in such occupation, not later than 3 months after the date he commences his employment in such occupation.
(2) Duty of the responsible person of a person who is to be employed in the hazardous occupation described in regulation 3(f) to ensure that the person shall be medically examined by a designated
workplace doctor and certified fit to work in such occupation within 30 days before the date he is to commence his employment in such occupation.
(3) The medical examination referred to in paragraph (1) or (2) shall —
(a) consist of the examinations and investigations specified in the Schedule and such other examinations or investigations as the Commissioner may require from time to time in any
particular case; and
(b) include —
(i) a clinical examination of the person for symptoms and signs of any diseases that may result from exposure to the hazards of the occupation in which the person is employed; and
(ii) an assessment as to whether the person who is to be employed in a hazardous occupation is fit to work in that occupation.
Periodic medical examinations
5.—(1) Duty of the responsible person of a person employed in any hazardous occupation to ensure that the person shall be periodically examined by a designated workplace doctor.
(2) The periodic medical examinations referred to in paragraph (1) shall —
(a) consist of the examinations and investigations specified in the Schedule;
(b) include —
(i) a clinical examination of the person for symptoms and signs of any diseases that may result from exposure to the hazards of the occupation in which the person is employed; and
(ii) an assessment as to whether the person who is employed in a hazardous occupation is fit to continue working in that occupation; and
(c) take place at the intervals specified in the Schedule.
(3) Notwithstanding paragraph (2), the Commissioner may, in cases where he considers expedient, require any person to be examined at intervals other than or in addition to those specified in the Schedule.
Other medical examinations
6.—(1) The Commissioner may require any person or category of persons employed in any hazardous occupation to undergo a medical examination other than or in addition to the medical examinations referred to in regulations 4 and 5.
(2) Where a person employed in any hazardous occupation is required to undergo any audiometric examinations, it shall be the duty of the responsible person of that person to ensure that the audiometric examinations shall be carried out by persons who have undergone a course of training in audiometric screening acceptable to the Commissioner.
(3) Any responsible person who contravenes paragraph (2) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Medical expenses to be borne by responsible person
7.—(1) Duty of the responsible person of a person who is employed or to be employed in any hazardous occupation —
(a) to arrange, at the expense of the responsible person, all medical examinations and investigations that the person employed or to be employed in any hazardous occupation is
required to undergo under these Regulations; and
(b) to grant paid leave of absence to that person required to undergo any medical examination or investigation under these Regulations.
(2) Duty of any person who is required to undergo any medical examination or investigation under these Regulations to ensure that he shall submit himself for such medical examination and investigation.
(3) Any person who contravenes paragraph (2) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Registers of employees in hazardous occupations
8.—(1) Duty of the responsible person of a person or persons employed in any hazardous occupation in a workplace to keep registers of such persons.
(2) The responsible person shall ensure that the registers referred to in paragraph (1) are —
(a) kept in such form and manner as may be required by the Commissioner;
(b) updated at all times such as to show at any time, the particulars of all persons who are currently employed in any hazardous occupation in the workplace and all the persons who had or have been employed in the hazardous occupation in the workplace in the last 5 years; and
(c) be produced for inspection upon request by an inspector.
(3) Any person who contravenes paragraph (1) or (2) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $10,000.
Designated workplace doctor to report results of medical examinations to employers
9.—(1) Duty of the designated workplace doctor to report the results of the medical examination of a person employed in any hazardous occupation in a workplace to the responsible person of
that person.
(3) The responsible person of a person employed in any hazardous occupation shall —
(a) keep the report of every medical examination of that person employed in a hazardous occupation for a period of at least 5 years from the date of the medical examination; and
(b) whenever required by the Commissioner within the period referred to in sub-paragraph (a), make available to the Commissioner the report or a summary of the report, as the Commissioner may specify.
(4) Any person who contravenes paragraph (1), (2) or (3) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $10,000.
Designated workplace doctor may recommend suspension from work
10.—(1) Where a designated workplace doctor, having regard to the results of the medical examination carried out under these Regulations, is satisfied that the health of a person is likely to be or has been injuriously affected by the person’s employment in a hazardous occupation, it shall be the duty of the designated workplace doctor to advise the person that he —
(a) should not continue to be employed in that occupation; or
(b) be suspended from his work in such hazardous occupation temporarily for such period of time, as may be determined by the designated workplace doctor or permanently.
(2) Where the designated workplace doctor advises that a person employed in a hazardous occupation be suspended from employment in such hazardous occupation, it shall be the duty of the designated workplace doctor to —
(a) complete a certificate of suspension in such form and manner as may be determined by the Commissioner; and
(b) give a copy of the certificate of suspension to that person who is to be suspended from employment in a hazardous occupation, the responsible person concerned and the Commissioner.
(3) It shall be the duty of the responsible person of the person named in the certificate of suspension referred to in paragraph (2) to suspend the person from his work in the hazardous occupation.
(4) Any person named in the certificate of suspension referred to in paragraph (2) or the responsible person may, within 14 days from the date of the certificate of suspension, appeal to the Commissioner against it and the Commissioner’s decision shall be final.
Designated workplace doctor may inspect place of work
11.—(1) Duty of the occupier of a workplace to provide all facilities to the designated workplace doctor to inspect the premises of the workplace and any process or work in or on which a person being examined by the designated workplace doctor under these Regulations is or is to be employed.
(2) Duty of the responsible person of a person who is employed in any hazardous occupation in a workplace and the occupier of that workplace to provide the designated workplace doctor with all information which is relevant and within their joint knowledge to enable the designated workplace doctor to carry out a proper medical examination of such person under these Regulations.
WSH (MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS) REG 2011 - Part III (Registration to Act as Designated Workplace Doctors)
Application for registration as designated workplace doctor
12.—(1) A person who —
(a) is a medical practitioner registered under the provisions of the Medical Registration Act; and
(b) has successfully completed and passed a course of training in occupational health acceptable to the Commissioner,
may apply to the Commissioner to be registered to act as a designated workplace doctor.
(3) Upon receiving an application, the Commissioner may —
(a) if he is satisfied that the applicant is a fit and proper person to be registered as a designated workplace doctor, register the applicant either unconditionally, or subject to such conditions as the Commissioner thinks fit, as a designated workplace doctor; or
(b) if he is not so satisfied, refuse to register the applicant as a designated workplace doctor.
Certificate of registration
13.—(1) Upon a medical practitioner being registered as a designated workplace doctor, the Commissioner shall —
(a) issue him with a certificate of registration; and
(b) record his name and relevant particulars in the register of designated workplace doctors.
(2) A certificate of registration is not transferable.
(3) Where a certificate of registration is lost, destroyed or defaced, the holder of the certificate may apply to the Commissioner for a replacement certificate.
Register of designated workplace doctor
14. The Commissioner shall keep a register of all persons registered to act as a designated workplace doctor and shall ensure that the register is updated at all times.
12.—(1) A person who —
(a) is a medical practitioner registered under the provisions of the Medical Registration Act; and
(b) has successfully completed and passed a course of training in occupational health acceptable to the Commissioner,
may apply to the Commissioner to be registered to act as a designated workplace doctor.
(3) Upon receiving an application, the Commissioner may —
(a) if he is satisfied that the applicant is a fit and proper person to be registered as a designated workplace doctor, register the applicant either unconditionally, or subject to such conditions as the Commissioner thinks fit, as a designated workplace doctor; or
(b) if he is not so satisfied, refuse to register the applicant as a designated workplace doctor.
Certificate of registration
13.—(1) Upon a medical practitioner being registered as a designated workplace doctor, the Commissioner shall —
(a) issue him with a certificate of registration; and
(b) record his name and relevant particulars in the register of designated workplace doctors.
(2) A certificate of registration is not transferable.
(3) Where a certificate of registration is lost, destroyed or defaced, the holder of the certificate may apply to the Commissioner for a replacement certificate.
Register of designated workplace doctor
14. The Commissioner shall keep a register of all persons registered to act as a designated workplace doctor and shall ensure that the register is updated at all times.
WSH (Operation of Cranes) Regulations 2011
ARRANGEMENT OF REGULATIONS
PART I - PRELIMINARY
1. Citation and commencement
1.—(1) These Regulations may be cited as the Workplace Safety and Health (Operation of Cranes) Regulations 2011 and shall, with the exception of regulation 5(4) and (5), come into operation on 10th September 2011.
(2) Regulation 5(4) and (5) shall come into operation on 1st September 2013.
2. Definitions
3. Application
PART II - GENERAL PROVISIONS
4. Lifting plan
5. Only registered crane operator to operate a mobile crane and tower crane
PART III - REGISTRATION OF CRANE OPERATORS
6. Application for registration to be crane operator
7. Requirements for registration as crane operator
8. Certificate of registration
9. Register of crane operators
10. Production of certificate of registration upon request
11. Renewal of registration
12. Conditions for renewal of registration as crane operator
13. Suspension and cancellation of registration
14. Notice of suspension and cancellation of registration
15. Surrender of certificate
16. Duties of crane operator
PART IV - APPOINTMENT AND DUTIES OF PERSONNEL
17. Appointment and duties of lifting supervisor
18. Appointment and duties of rigger
19. Appointment and duties of signalman
PART V - INSTALLATION, REPAIR, ALTERATION, TESTING AND DISMANTLING OF MOBILE CRANE OR TOWER CRANE
20. Only approved crane contractor to install, repair, alter or dismantle mobile
crane or tower crane
21. Application for approval to be approved crane contractor
22. Certificate of approval
23. Production of certificate of approval upon request
24. Suspension or cancellation of certificate
25. Notice of suspension or cancellation of certificate
26. Duties of approved crane contractor
27. Duties of owner of mobile crane and tower crane
PART VI - MISCELLANEOUS
28. Offence
29. Revocation
30. Savings and transitional provision
The Schedules
FIRST SCHEDULE - TYPES OF MOBILE CRANES
SECOND SCHEDULE - TYPES OF TOWER CRANES
THIRD SCHEDULE - FEES
1. An application for registration as a crane operator - $20
2. An application for renewal of registration as a crane operator - $20
3. To replace a certificate of registration as a crane operator - $10 per certificate to be replaced
4. An application for approval as a crane contractor - $150
5. An application for renewal of approval as a crane contractor - $150.
PART I - PRELIMINARY
1. Citation and commencement
1.—(1) These Regulations may be cited as the Workplace Safety and Health (Operation of Cranes) Regulations 2011 and shall, with the exception of regulation 5(4) and (5), come into operation on 10th September 2011.
(2) Regulation 5(4) and (5) shall come into operation on 1st September 2013.
2. Definitions
3. Application
PART II - GENERAL PROVISIONS
4. Lifting plan
5. Only registered crane operator to operate a mobile crane and tower crane
PART III - REGISTRATION OF CRANE OPERATORS
6. Application for registration to be crane operator
7. Requirements for registration as crane operator
8. Certificate of registration
9. Register of crane operators
10. Production of certificate of registration upon request
11. Renewal of registration
12. Conditions for renewal of registration as crane operator
13. Suspension and cancellation of registration
14. Notice of suspension and cancellation of registration
15. Surrender of certificate
16. Duties of crane operator
PART IV - APPOINTMENT AND DUTIES OF PERSONNEL
17. Appointment and duties of lifting supervisor
18. Appointment and duties of rigger
19. Appointment and duties of signalman
PART V - INSTALLATION, REPAIR, ALTERATION, TESTING AND DISMANTLING OF MOBILE CRANE OR TOWER CRANE
20. Only approved crane contractor to install, repair, alter or dismantle mobile
crane or tower crane
21. Application for approval to be approved crane contractor
22. Certificate of approval
23. Production of certificate of approval upon request
24. Suspension or cancellation of certificate
25. Notice of suspension or cancellation of certificate
26. Duties of approved crane contractor
27. Duties of owner of mobile crane and tower crane
PART VI - MISCELLANEOUS
28. Offence
29. Revocation
30. Savings and transitional provision
The Schedules
FIRST SCHEDULE - TYPES OF MOBILE CRANES
SECOND SCHEDULE - TYPES OF TOWER CRANES
THIRD SCHEDULE - FEES
1. An application for registration as a crane operator - $20
2. An application for renewal of registration as a crane operator - $20
3. To replace a certificate of registration as a crane operator - $10 per certificate to be replaced
4. An application for approval as a crane contractor - $150
5. An application for renewal of approval as a crane contractor - $150.
WSH (Operation of Cranes) Reg 2011 - Part II (General Provisions)
"crane" means a machine incorporating an elevated structural member or jib beneath which suspended loads may be moved vertically (whether upwards or downwards) or horizontally or
both, either by slewing the machine or derricking the jib, or by any other means not solely involving a travelling motion of the crane;
Lifting plan
4.—(1) Where any lifting operation involving the use of any crane is carried out in a workplace by a crane operator, the responsible person to establish and implement a lifting plan which shall be in accordance with the generally accepted principles of safe and sound practice.
(2) The responsible person to ensure that the lifting plan is made available for inspection upon request by an inspector.
Only registered crane operator to operate a mobile crane and tower crane
5.—(1) No person shall operate a mobile crane (not being a lorry loader) or tower crane in a workplace unless he is a registered crane operator.
(2) Responsible person to ensure that no person, other than a registered crane operator, is employed, permitted or made to operate a mobile crane (not being a lorry loader) or tower
crane in a workplace.
(3) A person, whether or not he is also a registered crane operator, may drive a mobile crane in a workplace if he is the holder of a driving licence issued under the Road Traffic Act authorising him to drive a mobile crane of a class or description permitted by the licence, but he shall not operate the mobile crane unless he also satisfies the requirement referred to in paragraph (1).
(4) No person shall operate a lorry loader unless —
(a) he has successfully completed a training course, acceptable to the Commissioner, on the operation of a lorry loader;
(b) if required by the Commissioner, he attends re-training on the operation of a lorry loader and successfully completes such re-training; and
(c) if required by the Commissioner, he produces a current medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner certifying that he is medically fit to operate a lorry loader.
(5) The responsible person to ensure that no person is allowed to operate a lorry loader unless the person satisfies the requirements referred to in paragraph (4).
both, either by slewing the machine or derricking the jib, or by any other means not solely involving a travelling motion of the crane;
Lifting plan
4.—(1) Where any lifting operation involving the use of any crane is carried out in a workplace by a crane operator, the responsible person to establish and implement a lifting plan which shall be in accordance with the generally accepted principles of safe and sound practice.
(2) The responsible person to ensure that the lifting plan is made available for inspection upon request by an inspector.
Only registered crane operator to operate a mobile crane and tower crane
5.—(1) No person shall operate a mobile crane (not being a lorry loader) or tower crane in a workplace unless he is a registered crane operator.
(2) Responsible person to ensure that no person, other than a registered crane operator, is employed, permitted or made to operate a mobile crane (not being a lorry loader) or tower
crane in a workplace.
(3) A person, whether or not he is also a registered crane operator, may drive a mobile crane in a workplace if he is the holder of a driving licence issued under the Road Traffic Act authorising him to drive a mobile crane of a class or description permitted by the licence, but he shall not operate the mobile crane unless he also satisfies the requirement referred to in paragraph (1).
(4) No person shall operate a lorry loader unless —
(a) he has successfully completed a training course, acceptable to the Commissioner, on the operation of a lorry loader;
(b) if required by the Commissioner, he attends re-training on the operation of a lorry loader and successfully completes such re-training; and
(c) if required by the Commissioner, he produces a current medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner certifying that he is medically fit to operate a lorry loader.
(5) The responsible person to ensure that no person is allowed to operate a lorry loader unless the person satisfies the requirements referred to in paragraph (4).
WSH (Operation of Cranes) Reg 2011 - Part III (Registration of Crane Operators)
Application for registration to be crane operator
6.—(1) A person may apply to the Commissioner for his approval to register as a crane operator.
(2) An application under paragraph (1) shall be —
(a) in such form and manner as the Commissioner may determine; and
(b) accompanied by the appropriate fee.
(3) Upon receiving an application, the Commissioner may, subject to regulation 7 —
(a) issue the person with a certificate of registration to act as a crane operator (subject to such conditions); or
(b) refuse to approve the application.
Requirements for registration as crane operator
7.—(1) A person may register as a crane operator if he satisfies the Commissioner that —
(a) he has successfully completed a training course acceptable to the Commissioner on the operation of a mobile crane or tower crane;
(b) he has, in the opinion of the Commissioner, sufficient experience in operating a mobile crane or tower crane and has passed a proficiency test acceptable to the Commissioner; or
(c) he possesses any other equivalent qualification acceptable to the Commissioner.
(2) The Commissioner may require an applicant to produce a current medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner which certifies that the applicant is medically fit to operate a mobile crane or tower crane.
(3) The Commissioner shall not register an applicant who has been certified by a registered medical practitioner to be unfit to operate a mobile crane or tower crane.
Certificate of registration
8.—(1) A certificate of registration to act as a crane operator shall, unless the registration is earlier cancelled, be valid for a period of 2 years from the date of registration or for such shorter period as the Commissioner may specify in the certificate of registration.
(2) A certificate of registration is not transferable.
(3) Where a certificate of registration is lost, destroyed or defaced, the holder of the certificate may apply to the Commissioner for a replacement certificate on payment of the appropriate fee.
(4) An application under paragraph (3) to the Commissioner shall be supported by such documentary proof that the certificate of registration issued earlier is lost, destroyed or defaced.
Register of crane operators
9. The Commissioner shall keep an up-to-date register of all persons registered as crane operators.
Production of certificate of registration upon request
10.—(1) Registered crane operator to produce his certificate of registration for inspection upon request by an inspector.
(2) Any person who contravenes paragraph (1) shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine
not exceeding $2,000.
Renewal of registration
11.—(1) An application by a person for the renewal of his certificate of registration to act as a crane operator shall be made in such form and manner as the Commissioner may determine, and shall be accompanied by the appropriate fee.
(2) Any renewal fee paid is not refundable.
(3) The Commissioner may —
(a) renew the certificate of registration to act as a crane operator for a period of 2 years or for such shorter period as the Commissioner may specify in the certificate of registration; or
(b) refuse the application for renewal if the Commissioner is satisfied that the applicant is no longer a fit and proper person to be registered as a crane operator.
Conditions for renewal of registration as crane operator
12.—(1) The Commissioner may impose such conditions for the renewal of registration as a crane operator as he thinks fit.
(2) The conditions may include any one or all of the following:
(a) requiring an applicant to attend a refresher course acceptable to the Commissioner on the operation of a mobile crane or a tower crane;
(b) requiring an applicant to pass a proficiency test acceptable to the Commissioner for crane operation;
(c) requiring an applicant to produce a current medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner which certifies that the applicant is medically fit to operate a mobile crane or tower crane.
Suspension and cancellation of registration
13.—(1) The Commissioner may suspend or cancel the registration of any registered crane operator if the Commissioner is satisfied that the registered crane operator —
(a) has obtained his registration by means of fraud, false representation or the concealment of
any material fact;
(b) has been certified by a registered medical practitioner to be unfit to operate a mobile crane or a tower crane; or
(c) has failed to comply with any of the duties set out in these Regulations.
(2) Duty of a registered crane operator upon becoming aware of any medical condition which may render him unfit to operate a mobile crane or a tower crane to inform the Commissioner of such medical condition without undue delay.
(3) Any person who contravenes paragraph (2) shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Notice of suspension and cancellation of registration
14.—(1) When the Commissioner has suspended or cancelled the registration of a registered crane operator under regulation 13, the Commissioner shall inform the registered crane operator concerned by notice in writing of such suspension or cancellation.
(2) The suspension or cancellation shall take effect 21 days after the date of the service of the notice on the registered crane operator or, if an appeal against the suspension or cancellation of registration has been made to the Minister under paragraph (4), on the date the Minister dismisses the appeal.
(3) Notwithstanding that the suspension or cancellation has not taken effect, any registered crane operator whose registration is suspended or cancelled by the Commissioner shall not, between the date of the service of the notice of suspension or cancellation and the date the suspension or cancellation takes effect (both dates inclusive), operate a mobile crane (not being a lorry loader) or a tower crane.
(4) A registered crane operator whose registration has been suspended or cancelled by the Commissioner under regulation 13 may, within 21 days of the date of the service of the notice of suspension or cancellation, appeal to the Minister whose decision shall be final.
(5) The notice of suspension or cancellation may be served on any person by delivering it to him, or by leaving it at, or sending it by registered post to, his last known residential address.
Surrender of certificate
15.—(1) A registered crane operator shall immediately surrender to the Commissioner his certificate of registration when the suspension or cancellation takes effect in accordance with regulation 14(2).
(2) Any person who contravenes paragraph (1) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months or to both.
Duties of crane operator
16. Duty of a crane operator —
(a) before the start of every workshift, to carry out operational tests on all limiting and indicating devices under no load conditions before any lifting operation is carried out and
shall enter the results of such tests in a log book or log-sheet;
(b) to ascertain whether the ground conditions, in particular the ground surface on which a mobile crane is to be operated, are safe for travel or any lifting operation; and if he is of the
opinion that it is not safe for travel or any lifting operation, he shall report this to the lifting supervisor;
(c) to ensure that any outrigger when it is required is fully extended and secured;
(d) not to carry out any lifting operation unless he has been briefed by the lifting supervisor on the lifting plan referred to in regulation 4;
(e) not to hoist any object if he is unable to ascertain the weight of the load;
(f) not to hoist any load unless he has received a clear signal from a signalman when this is required under regulation 19;
(g) not to engage in any act or manoeuvre which is not in accordance with safe and sound practice;
(h) not to hoist any load if there is any obstruction in the path of manoeuvre and if there is any such obstruction, he shall report this immediately to the lifting supervisor;
(i) not to manoeuvre or hold any suspended load over any public road or public area unless that road or area has been cordoned off;
(j) not to operate a mobile crane or a tower crane within 3m of any live overhead power line;
(k) not to use the crane for any operation for which it is not intended, including pulling or dragging a load;
(l) to ensure that any stationary truck mounted or wheel mounted crane is adequately and securely blocked while it is on a slope; and
(m) to report any failure or malfunction of the crane to the lifting supervisor and to make an appropriate entry of the failure or malfunction in the log book or log-sheet of the crane.
6.—(1) A person may apply to the Commissioner for his approval to register as a crane operator.
(2) An application under paragraph (1) shall be —
(a) in such form and manner as the Commissioner may determine; and
(b) accompanied by the appropriate fee.
(3) Upon receiving an application, the Commissioner may, subject to regulation 7 —
(a) issue the person with a certificate of registration to act as a crane operator (subject to such conditions); or
(b) refuse to approve the application.
Requirements for registration as crane operator
7.—(1) A person may register as a crane operator if he satisfies the Commissioner that —
(a) he has successfully completed a training course acceptable to the Commissioner on the operation of a mobile crane or tower crane;
(b) he has, in the opinion of the Commissioner, sufficient experience in operating a mobile crane or tower crane and has passed a proficiency test acceptable to the Commissioner; or
(c) he possesses any other equivalent qualification acceptable to the Commissioner.
(2) The Commissioner may require an applicant to produce a current medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner which certifies that the applicant is medically fit to operate a mobile crane or tower crane.
(3) The Commissioner shall not register an applicant who has been certified by a registered medical practitioner to be unfit to operate a mobile crane or tower crane.
Certificate of registration
8.—(1) A certificate of registration to act as a crane operator shall, unless the registration is earlier cancelled, be valid for a period of 2 years from the date of registration or for such shorter period as the Commissioner may specify in the certificate of registration.
(2) A certificate of registration is not transferable.
(3) Where a certificate of registration is lost, destroyed or defaced, the holder of the certificate may apply to the Commissioner for a replacement certificate on payment of the appropriate fee.
(4) An application under paragraph (3) to the Commissioner shall be supported by such documentary proof that the certificate of registration issued earlier is lost, destroyed or defaced.
Register of crane operators
9. The Commissioner shall keep an up-to-date register of all persons registered as crane operators.
Production of certificate of registration upon request
10.—(1) Registered crane operator to produce his certificate of registration for inspection upon request by an inspector.
(2) Any person who contravenes paragraph (1) shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine
not exceeding $2,000.
Renewal of registration
11.—(1) An application by a person for the renewal of his certificate of registration to act as a crane operator shall be made in such form and manner as the Commissioner may determine, and shall be accompanied by the appropriate fee.
(2) Any renewal fee paid is not refundable.
(3) The Commissioner may —
(a) renew the certificate of registration to act as a crane operator for a period of 2 years or for such shorter period as the Commissioner may specify in the certificate of registration; or
(b) refuse the application for renewal if the Commissioner is satisfied that the applicant is no longer a fit and proper person to be registered as a crane operator.
Conditions for renewal of registration as crane operator
12.—(1) The Commissioner may impose such conditions for the renewal of registration as a crane operator as he thinks fit.
(2) The conditions may include any one or all of the following:
(a) requiring an applicant to attend a refresher course acceptable to the Commissioner on the operation of a mobile crane or a tower crane;
(b) requiring an applicant to pass a proficiency test acceptable to the Commissioner for crane operation;
(c) requiring an applicant to produce a current medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner which certifies that the applicant is medically fit to operate a mobile crane or tower crane.
Suspension and cancellation of registration
13.—(1) The Commissioner may suspend or cancel the registration of any registered crane operator if the Commissioner is satisfied that the registered crane operator —
(a) has obtained his registration by means of fraud, false representation or the concealment of
any material fact;
(b) has been certified by a registered medical practitioner to be unfit to operate a mobile crane or a tower crane; or
(c) has failed to comply with any of the duties set out in these Regulations.
(2) Duty of a registered crane operator upon becoming aware of any medical condition which may render him unfit to operate a mobile crane or a tower crane to inform the Commissioner of such medical condition without undue delay.
(3) Any person who contravenes paragraph (2) shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Notice of suspension and cancellation of registration
14.—(1) When the Commissioner has suspended or cancelled the registration of a registered crane operator under regulation 13, the Commissioner shall inform the registered crane operator concerned by notice in writing of such suspension or cancellation.
(2) The suspension or cancellation shall take effect 21 days after the date of the service of the notice on the registered crane operator or, if an appeal against the suspension or cancellation of registration has been made to the Minister under paragraph (4), on the date the Minister dismisses the appeal.
(3) Notwithstanding that the suspension or cancellation has not taken effect, any registered crane operator whose registration is suspended or cancelled by the Commissioner shall not, between the date of the service of the notice of suspension or cancellation and the date the suspension or cancellation takes effect (both dates inclusive), operate a mobile crane (not being a lorry loader) or a tower crane.
(4) A registered crane operator whose registration has been suspended or cancelled by the Commissioner under regulation 13 may, within 21 days of the date of the service of the notice of suspension or cancellation, appeal to the Minister whose decision shall be final.
(5) The notice of suspension or cancellation may be served on any person by delivering it to him, or by leaving it at, or sending it by registered post to, his last known residential address.
Surrender of certificate
15.—(1) A registered crane operator shall immediately surrender to the Commissioner his certificate of registration when the suspension or cancellation takes effect in accordance with regulation 14(2).
(2) Any person who contravenes paragraph (1) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months or to both.
Duties of crane operator
16. Duty of a crane operator —
(a) before the start of every workshift, to carry out operational tests on all limiting and indicating devices under no load conditions before any lifting operation is carried out and
shall enter the results of such tests in a log book or log-sheet;
(b) to ascertain whether the ground conditions, in particular the ground surface on which a mobile crane is to be operated, are safe for travel or any lifting operation; and if he is of the
opinion that it is not safe for travel or any lifting operation, he shall report this to the lifting supervisor;
(c) to ensure that any outrigger when it is required is fully extended and secured;
(d) not to carry out any lifting operation unless he has been briefed by the lifting supervisor on the lifting plan referred to in regulation 4;
(e) not to hoist any object if he is unable to ascertain the weight of the load;
(f) not to hoist any load unless he has received a clear signal from a signalman when this is required under regulation 19;
(g) not to engage in any act or manoeuvre which is not in accordance with safe and sound practice;
(h) not to hoist any load if there is any obstruction in the path of manoeuvre and if there is any such obstruction, he shall report this immediately to the lifting supervisor;
(i) not to manoeuvre or hold any suspended load over any public road or public area unless that road or area has been cordoned off;
(j) not to operate a mobile crane or a tower crane within 3m of any live overhead power line;
(k) not to use the crane for any operation for which it is not intended, including pulling or dragging a load;
(l) to ensure that any stationary truck mounted or wheel mounted crane is adequately and securely blocked while it is on a slope; and
(m) to report any failure or malfunction of the crane to the lifting supervisor and to make an appropriate entry of the failure or malfunction in the log book or log-sheet of the crane.
WSH (Operation of Cranes) Reg 2011 - Part IV (Appointment & Duties of Personnel)
Appointment and duties of lifting supervisor
17.—(1) Duty of the responsible person to appoint a lifting supervisor before any lifting operation involving the use of any crane is carried out in a workplace.
(2) Responsible person not to appoint any person as a lifting supervisor for any lifting operation involving the use of a crane in a workplace unless the person is one who —
(a) has successfully completed a training course acceptable to the Commissioner to equip him to become a lifting supervisor; and
(b) has, in the opinion of the responsible person, such relevant experience in lifting operations for a period of not less than one year before the appointment as a lifting supervisor.
(3) Duty of the lifting supervisor —
(a) to co-ordinate all lifting activities;
(b) to supervise all lifting operation by a mobile crane or tower crane in accordance with the lifting plan referred to in regulation 4;
(c) to ensure that only registered crane operators, appointed riggers and appointed signalmen participate in any lifting operation involving the use of amobile crane or a tower crane;
(d) to ensure that the ground conditions are safe for any lifting operation to be performed by any mobile crane;
(e) to brief all crane operators, riggers and signalmen on the lifting plan referred to in regulation 4; and
(f) if any unsatisfactory or unsafe conditions are reported to him by any crane operator or rigger, take such measures to rectify the unsatisfactory or unsafe condition or otherwise ensure that any lifting operation is carried out safely.
Appointment and duties of rigger
18.—(1) Duty of the responsible person to appoint a rigger before any lifting operation involving the use of any mobile crane or tower crane is carried out in the workplace by a crane operator.
(2) Duty of the responsible person —
(a) not to appoint any person as a rigger in a workplace unless the person has successfully completed a training course acceptable to the Commissioner to equip him to be a rigger; and
(b) to ensure that the rigger who is appointed is attired in such a way as would distinctively identify him as a rigger.
(3) No person shall rig up loads for any lifting operation by a mobile crane or tower crane unless he is a rigger appointed in accordance with paragraph (1).
(4) Duty of appointed rigger to —
(a) check the slings to be used for slinging the loads to ensure that the slings are of good construction, sound and suitable material, adequate strength and free from patent defect;
(b) ensure that an adequate number of legs of the sling are used and that the slinging angle is correct so as to prevent the sling from being overloaded during the hoisting;
(c) ascertain the weight of the load which is to be lifted and inform the crane operator of the weight of the load;
(d) ensure that only proper lifting gears are used in conjunction with the sling;
(e) ensure that the load to be lifted is secure, stable and balanced;
(f) ensure that any loose load (which includes any stone, brick or tile) is placed in a receptacle to prevent the load or part thereof from falling during the lifting operation;
(g) place adequate padding at the edges of the load which come in contact with the sling so as to prevent the sling from being damaged; and
(h) report any defect in the lifting gear to the lifting supervisor.
Appointment and duties of signalman
19.—(1) Duty of the responsible person to appoint a signalman before any lifting operation involving the use of any mobile crane or tower crane is carried out in a workplace by a crane operator.
(2) Duty of the responsible person —
(a) not to appoint any person as a signalman in a workplace unless the person has successfully completed a training course acceptable to the Commissioner to equip him to be a signalman; and
(b) to ensure that the appointed signalman is attired in such a way as would distinctively
identify him as a signalman.
(3) No person shall give signal to the crane operator unless he is a signalman appointed in accordance with paragraph (1).
(4) Duty of the appointed signalman to —
(a) ensure or verify with the rigger that the load is properly rigged up before he gives a clear signal to the crane operator to lift the load; and
(b) give correct and clear signals to guide the crane operator in the manoeuvre of the load safely to its destination.
17.—(1) Duty of the responsible person to appoint a lifting supervisor before any lifting operation involving the use of any crane is carried out in a workplace.
(2) Responsible person not to appoint any person as a lifting supervisor for any lifting operation involving the use of a crane in a workplace unless the person is one who —
(a) has successfully completed a training course acceptable to the Commissioner to equip him to become a lifting supervisor; and
(b) has, in the opinion of the responsible person, such relevant experience in lifting operations for a period of not less than one year before the appointment as a lifting supervisor.
(3) Duty of the lifting supervisor —
(a) to co-ordinate all lifting activities;
(b) to supervise all lifting operation by a mobile crane or tower crane in accordance with the lifting plan referred to in regulation 4;
(c) to ensure that only registered crane operators, appointed riggers and appointed signalmen participate in any lifting operation involving the use of amobile crane or a tower crane;
(d) to ensure that the ground conditions are safe for any lifting operation to be performed by any mobile crane;
(e) to brief all crane operators, riggers and signalmen on the lifting plan referred to in regulation 4; and
(f) if any unsatisfactory or unsafe conditions are reported to him by any crane operator or rigger, take such measures to rectify the unsatisfactory or unsafe condition or otherwise ensure that any lifting operation is carried out safely.
Appointment and duties of rigger
18.—(1) Duty of the responsible person to appoint a rigger before any lifting operation involving the use of any mobile crane or tower crane is carried out in the workplace by a crane operator.
(2) Duty of the responsible person —
(a) not to appoint any person as a rigger in a workplace unless the person has successfully completed a training course acceptable to the Commissioner to equip him to be a rigger; and
(b) to ensure that the rigger who is appointed is attired in such a way as would distinctively identify him as a rigger.
(3) No person shall rig up loads for any lifting operation by a mobile crane or tower crane unless he is a rigger appointed in accordance with paragraph (1).
(4) Duty of appointed rigger to —
(a) check the slings to be used for slinging the loads to ensure that the slings are of good construction, sound and suitable material, adequate strength and free from patent defect;
(b) ensure that an adequate number of legs of the sling are used and that the slinging angle is correct so as to prevent the sling from being overloaded during the hoisting;
(c) ascertain the weight of the load which is to be lifted and inform the crane operator of the weight of the load;
(d) ensure that only proper lifting gears are used in conjunction with the sling;
(e) ensure that the load to be lifted is secure, stable and balanced;
(f) ensure that any loose load (which includes any stone, brick or tile) is placed in a receptacle to prevent the load or part thereof from falling during the lifting operation;
(g) place adequate padding at the edges of the load which come in contact with the sling so as to prevent the sling from being damaged; and
(h) report any defect in the lifting gear to the lifting supervisor.
Appointment and duties of signalman
19.—(1) Duty of the responsible person to appoint a signalman before any lifting operation involving the use of any mobile crane or tower crane is carried out in a workplace by a crane operator.
(2) Duty of the responsible person —
(a) not to appoint any person as a signalman in a workplace unless the person has successfully completed a training course acceptable to the Commissioner to equip him to be a signalman; and
(b) to ensure that the appointed signalman is attired in such a way as would distinctively
identify him as a signalman.
(3) No person shall give signal to the crane operator unless he is a signalman appointed in accordance with paragraph (1).
(4) Duty of the appointed signalman to —
(a) ensure or verify with the rigger that the load is properly rigged up before he gives a clear signal to the crane operator to lift the load; and
(b) give correct and clear signals to guide the crane operator in the manoeuvre of the load safely to its destination.
WSH (Operation of Cranes) Regulations 2011 - Part V (Installation, Repair, Alteration, etc of Mobile / Tower Crane)
Only approved crane contractor to install, repair, alter or dismantle mobile crane or tower crane
20.—(1) No person shall install, repair, alter or dismantle a mobile crane or tower crane unless he is an approved crane contractor.
(2) Paragraph (1) shall not apply —
(a) to the installation or dismantling of a fly jib; and
(b) to the repair of any non-load bearing part of a crane, unless the repair affects the safe operation of the crane.
Application for approval to be approved crane contractor
21.—(1) A firm or company may apply to the Commissioner for approval to act as an approved crane contractor.
(2) An application under paragraph (1) shall be —
(a) accompanied by the appropriate fee;
(b) in such form and manner as the Commissioner may require; and
(c) accompanied by such particulars, information, statements and documents as the Commissioner may require.
Certificate of approval
22.—(1) On receipt of an application, the Commissioner may —
(a) issue to the applicant a certificate of approval, subject to conditions as the Commissioner may think fit to impose; or
(b) refuse to approve the application.
(2) Where the Commissioner refuses to approve the applicant to act as an approved crane contractor, he shall give the applicant notice in writing of the reasons for his refusal.
(3) The Commissioner may at any time vary or revoke any of the existing conditions imposed under paragraph (1) or impose new conditions.
(4) A certificate of approval for a firm or company to act as an approved crane contractor is valid for a period of 2 years.
(5) A certificate of approval may be renewed.
Production of certificate of approval upon request
23.—(1) The approved crane contractor to produce his certificate of approval for inspection upon request by an inspector.
(2) Any person who contravenes paragraph (1) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $5,000.
Suspension or cancellation of certificate
24. The Commissioner may suspend or cancel the certificate of approval issued to any approved crane contractor if the Commissioner is satisfied that the approved crane contractor —
(a) has obtained the certificate of approval under these Regulations by means of fraud, false representation or the concealment of any material fact; or
(b) is contravening or has contravened any condition subject to which the certificate was issued.
Notice of suspension or cancellation of certificate
25.—(1) When the Commissioner has suspended or cancelled the certificate of approval under regulation 24, the Commissioner shall inform the approved crane contractor concerned by notice in writing of such suspension or cancellation.
(2) The suspension or cancellation shall take effect 21 days after the date of the service of the notice on the approved crane contractor or, if an appeal against the suspension or cancellation of the certificate of approval has been made to the Minister under paragraph (4), on the date the Minister dismisses the appeal.
(3) Notwithstanding that the suspension or cancellation has not taken effect, any approved crane contractor whose certificate of approval is suspended or cancelled by the Commissioner shall not, between the date of the service of the notice of suspension or cancellation and the date the suspension or cancellation takes effect (both dates inclusive), install, repair, alter or dismantle a mobile crane or tower crane.
(4) An approved crane contractor whose certificate of approval has been suspended or cancelled may appeal to the Minister within 21 days of the date of the service of the notice of suspension or cancellation. The Minister's decision shall be final.
(5) A notice of suspension or cancellation may be served on any firm or company by leaving it at, or sending it by registered post to, the last known business address.
Duties of approved crane contractor
26.—(1) Subject to paragraph (2), duty of an approved crane contractor: to —
(a) obtain a manufacturer’s manual which contains instructions on the safe procedures for the installation, repair, alteration and dismantling of the mobile crane or tower crane, before
he installs, repairs, alters or dismantles any mobile crane or tower crane; and
(b) ensure that the crane is installed, repaired, altered or dismantled in accordance with the instructions contained in such manual.
(2) Where the manual referred to in paragraph (1) is not available, the approved crane contractor to ensure that the installation, repair, alteration or dismantling of any mobile crane
or tower crane is under the immediate supervision of an authorised examiner.
Duties of owner of mobile crane and tower crane
27. To ensure that after every installation, repair, alteration and dismantling of a mobile crane or tower crane —
(a) the crane is tested and certified safe by an authorised examiner for the operations for which it is intended; and
(b) the crane is not used unless it has been tested and certified in accordance with sub-paragraph (a).
20.—(1) No person shall install, repair, alter or dismantle a mobile crane or tower crane unless he is an approved crane contractor.
(2) Paragraph (1) shall not apply —
(a) to the installation or dismantling of a fly jib; and
(b) to the repair of any non-load bearing part of a crane, unless the repair affects the safe operation of the crane.
Application for approval to be approved crane contractor
21.—(1) A firm or company may apply to the Commissioner for approval to act as an approved crane contractor.
(2) An application under paragraph (1) shall be —
(a) accompanied by the appropriate fee;
(b) in such form and manner as the Commissioner may require; and
(c) accompanied by such particulars, information, statements and documents as the Commissioner may require.
Certificate of approval
22.—(1) On receipt of an application, the Commissioner may —
(a) issue to the applicant a certificate of approval, subject to conditions as the Commissioner may think fit to impose; or
(b) refuse to approve the application.
(2) Where the Commissioner refuses to approve the applicant to act as an approved crane contractor, he shall give the applicant notice in writing of the reasons for his refusal.
(3) The Commissioner may at any time vary or revoke any of the existing conditions imposed under paragraph (1) or impose new conditions.
(4) A certificate of approval for a firm or company to act as an approved crane contractor is valid for a period of 2 years.
(5) A certificate of approval may be renewed.
Production of certificate of approval upon request
23.—(1) The approved crane contractor to produce his certificate of approval for inspection upon request by an inspector.
(2) Any person who contravenes paragraph (1) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $5,000.
Suspension or cancellation of certificate
24. The Commissioner may suspend or cancel the certificate of approval issued to any approved crane contractor if the Commissioner is satisfied that the approved crane contractor —
(a) has obtained the certificate of approval under these Regulations by means of fraud, false representation or the concealment of any material fact; or
(b) is contravening or has contravened any condition subject to which the certificate was issued.
Notice of suspension or cancellation of certificate
25.—(1) When the Commissioner has suspended or cancelled the certificate of approval under regulation 24, the Commissioner shall inform the approved crane contractor concerned by notice in writing of such suspension or cancellation.
(2) The suspension or cancellation shall take effect 21 days after the date of the service of the notice on the approved crane contractor or, if an appeal against the suspension or cancellation of the certificate of approval has been made to the Minister under paragraph (4), on the date the Minister dismisses the appeal.
(3) Notwithstanding that the suspension or cancellation has not taken effect, any approved crane contractor whose certificate of approval is suspended or cancelled by the Commissioner shall not, between the date of the service of the notice of suspension or cancellation and the date the suspension or cancellation takes effect (both dates inclusive), install, repair, alter or dismantle a mobile crane or tower crane.
(4) An approved crane contractor whose certificate of approval has been suspended or cancelled may appeal to the Minister within 21 days of the date of the service of the notice of suspension or cancellation. The Minister's decision shall be final.
(5) A notice of suspension or cancellation may be served on any firm or company by leaving it at, or sending it by registered post to, the last known business address.
Duties of approved crane contractor
26.—(1) Subject to paragraph (2), duty of an approved crane contractor: to —
(a) obtain a manufacturer’s manual which contains instructions on the safe procedures for the installation, repair, alteration and dismantling of the mobile crane or tower crane, before
he installs, repairs, alters or dismantles any mobile crane or tower crane; and
(b) ensure that the crane is installed, repaired, altered or dismantled in accordance with the instructions contained in such manual.
(2) Where the manual referred to in paragraph (1) is not available, the approved crane contractor to ensure that the installation, repair, alteration or dismantling of any mobile crane
or tower crane is under the immediate supervision of an authorised examiner.
Duties of owner of mobile crane and tower crane
27. To ensure that after every installation, repair, alteration and dismantling of a mobile crane or tower crane —
(a) the crane is tested and certified safe by an authorised examiner for the operations for which it is intended; and
(b) the crane is not used unless it has been tested and certified in accordance with sub-paragraph (a).
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Workplace Safety and Health (Scaffold) Regulations 2011
ARRANGEMENT OF REGULATIONSPART I - PRELIMINARY
1. Citation and commencement
2. Definitions
3. Application
PART II -GENERAL PROVISIONS
4. Only approved scaffold contractor to construct, erect, install, re-position, alter, maintain, repair or dismantle certain scaffolds
5. Scaffold erectors
6. Scaffold supervisor
7. Personal protective equipment for scaffold erectors
8. Supervision of construction, erection, installation, re-positioning, alteration, maintenance, repair or dismantling of scaffolds
9. Construction and materials
10. Foundation of scaffolds
11. Scaffolds supported by buildings, ships or other structures
12. Designated access point for scaffolds
13. Stairs and ladders
14. Standards and ledgers
15. Transoms
16. Bracing
17. Gear for suspension of scaffolds
18. Work platforms
19. Loading requirements for scaffolds
20. Design by professional engineer
21. Boards, planks and decking
22. Toe-boards and guard-rails
23. Overlay and screening nets
24. Scaffolds to be free of material which endanger safety
25. Measures against electrical hazards
26. Inspection of scaffolds
27. Labelling of scaffolds after inspection
28. Construction, erection, maintenance, repair and dismantling of scaffolds
PART III - METAL SCAFFOLDS
29. Approved metal scaffolds
30. Design of certain metal scaffolds by professional engineer
31. Ties for metal scaffolds
32. Transoms for modular or tube-and-coupler scaffolds
33. Spigots, jointpins or sleeves
34. Adjustable base plates
35. Frame or modular scaffolds to be erected in one plane
36. Cross brace not to be used as means of access or egress
PART IV - TIMBER SCAFFOLDS
37. Timber scaffolds not to be used in shipyards
38. Materials for timber scaffolds
39. Construction of timber scaffolds
40. Ties for timber scaffolds
41. Duration of use of timber scaffolds
PART V - SUSPENDED SCAFFOLDS
42. Suspended scaffolds
43. Suspended scaffolds raised or lowered by climbers, winches or powered device
44. Safety device for suspended scaffolds
45. Prohibition of overloading of suspended scaffolds
46. Suspended scaffolds counter-balanced by counter-weights
47. Prevention of sway
48. Age limit of operator
49. Personal protective equipment for users of suspended scaffolds
50. Notice to be displayed in suspended scaffolds
PART VI - OTHER SCAFFOLDS
51. Tower scaffolds
52. Scaffolds and work platforms erected on cantilever or jib supports
53. Design of cantilever or jib supports by professional engineer
54. Hanging scaffolds
55. Personal protective equipment for users of hanging scaffolds
56. Trestle scaffolds
PART VII - APPROVED SCAFFOLD CONTRACTORS
57. Application for approval to be approved scaffold contractor
58. Certificate of approval
59. Production of certificate of approval
60. Suspension or cancellation of certificate
61. Notice of suspension or cancellation of certificate
PART VIII - MISCELLANEOUS
62. Offence
63. Revocation
64. Savings and transitional provision
For the full regulation, please click here
Workplace Safety and Health (Scaffold) Regulations 2011 - Part VII (Approved Scaffold Contractor)
Application for approval to be approved scaffold contractor
57.—(1) A firm or company may apply to the Commissioner for his approval to act as an approved scaffold contractor.
(2) An application under paragraph (1) shall —
(a) be accompanied by a non-refundable fee of $150;
(b) be in such form and manner as the Commissioner may require; and
(c) be accompanied by such particulars, information, statements and documents as the Commissioner may require.
Certificate of approval
58.—(1) On receipt of an application under regulation 57(1), the Commissioner may —
(a) issue to the applicant a certificate of approval, subject to such conditions as the Commissioner may think fit to impose; or
(b) refuse to approve the application.
(2) Where the Commissioner refuses to approve the applicant to act as an approved scaffold contractor, he shall give the applicant notice in writing of the reasons for his refusal.
(3) The Commissioner may at any time vary or revoke any of the conditions of a certificate of approval or impose new conditions.
(4) A certificate of approval is not transferable.
Production of certificate of approval
59.—(1) Approved scaffold contractor to produce his certificate of approval for inspection upon request by an inspector.
(2) Any person who contravenes paragraph (1) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $5,000.
Suspension or cancellation of certificate
60.—(1) The Commissioner may suspend or cancel the certificate of approval of any approved scaffold contractor if the Commissioner is satisfied that the approved scaffold contractor —
(a) has obtained the certificate of approval by means of fraud, false representation or the concealment of any material fact; or
(b) is contravening or has contravened any condition of the certificate of approval.
(2) Where a certificate of approval is suspended under paragraph (1), the firm or company to which the certificate of approval was issued shall, during the period of suspension, cease to be, and cease to act as, an approved scaffold contractor.
(3) Where a certificate of approval is cancelled under paragraph (1), the firm or company to which the certificate of approval was issued shall immediately cease to be, and cease to act as, an approved scaffold contractor.
Notice of suspension or cancellation of certificate
61.—(1) When the Commissioner has suspended or cancelled the certificate of approval under regulation 60, the Commissioner shall inform the approved scaffold contractor concerned by notice in writing of such suspension or cancellation.
(2) An approved scaffold contractor whose certificate of approval has been suspended or cancelled by the Commissioner under regulation 60 may, within 21 days of the date of the service of the notice of suspension or cancellation, appeal to the Minister whose decision shall be final.
(3) The suspension or cancellation of the certificate of approval shall take effect 21 days after the date of the service of the notice on the approved scaffold contractor or, if an appeal against the suspension or cancellation of the certificate of approval has been made to the Minister
under paragraph (2), on the date the Minister dismisses the appeal.
(4) Notwithstanding that the suspension or cancellation has not taken effect, any approved scaffold contractor whose certificate of approval is suspended or cancelled by the Commissioner shall not, between the date of the service of the notice of suspension or
cancellation and the date the suspension or cancellation takes effect (both dates inclusive), construct, erect, install, re-position, alter, maintain, repair or dismantle any scaffold referred to in regulation 4(1) in a workplace.
(5) A notice of suspension or cancellation may be served on any firm or company by leaving it at, or sending it by registered post to, the last known business address.
57.—(1) A firm or company may apply to the Commissioner for his approval to act as an approved scaffold contractor.
(2) An application under paragraph (1) shall —
(a) be accompanied by a non-refundable fee of $150;
(b) be in such form and manner as the Commissioner may require; and
(c) be accompanied by such particulars, information, statements and documents as the Commissioner may require.
Certificate of approval
58.—(1) On receipt of an application under regulation 57(1), the Commissioner may —
(a) issue to the applicant a certificate of approval, subject to such conditions as the Commissioner may think fit to impose; or
(b) refuse to approve the application.
(2) Where the Commissioner refuses to approve the applicant to act as an approved scaffold contractor, he shall give the applicant notice in writing of the reasons for his refusal.
(3) The Commissioner may at any time vary or revoke any of the conditions of a certificate of approval or impose new conditions.
(4) A certificate of approval is not transferable.
Production of certificate of approval
59.—(1) Approved scaffold contractor to produce his certificate of approval for inspection upon request by an inspector.
(2) Any person who contravenes paragraph (1) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $5,000.
Suspension or cancellation of certificate
60.—(1) The Commissioner may suspend or cancel the certificate of approval of any approved scaffold contractor if the Commissioner is satisfied that the approved scaffold contractor —
(a) has obtained the certificate of approval by means of fraud, false representation or the concealment of any material fact; or
(b) is contravening or has contravened any condition of the certificate of approval.
(2) Where a certificate of approval is suspended under paragraph (1), the firm or company to which the certificate of approval was issued shall, during the period of suspension, cease to be, and cease to act as, an approved scaffold contractor.
(3) Where a certificate of approval is cancelled under paragraph (1), the firm or company to which the certificate of approval was issued shall immediately cease to be, and cease to act as, an approved scaffold contractor.
Notice of suspension or cancellation of certificate
61.—(1) When the Commissioner has suspended or cancelled the certificate of approval under regulation 60, the Commissioner shall inform the approved scaffold contractor concerned by notice in writing of such suspension or cancellation.
(2) An approved scaffold contractor whose certificate of approval has been suspended or cancelled by the Commissioner under regulation 60 may, within 21 days of the date of the service of the notice of suspension or cancellation, appeal to the Minister whose decision shall be final.
(3) The suspension or cancellation of the certificate of approval shall take effect 21 days after the date of the service of the notice on the approved scaffold contractor or, if an appeal against the suspension or cancellation of the certificate of approval has been made to the Minister
under paragraph (2), on the date the Minister dismisses the appeal.
(4) Notwithstanding that the suspension or cancellation has not taken effect, any approved scaffold contractor whose certificate of approval is suspended or cancelled by the Commissioner shall not, between the date of the service of the notice of suspension or
cancellation and the date the suspension or cancellation takes effect (both dates inclusive), construct, erect, install, re-position, alter, maintain, repair or dismantle any scaffold referred to in regulation 4(1) in a workplace.
(5) A notice of suspension or cancellation may be served on any firm or company by leaving it at, or sending it by registered post to, the last known business address.
Workplace Safety and Health (Scaffold) Regulations 2011 - Part VI (Other Scaffolds)
Tower scaffolds
51.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (5) are complied with.
(2) The height of a tower scaffold erected or installed on board a ship in a shipyard shall not exceed 4 times the lesser of the base dimensions of the scaffold.
(3) The height of a tower scaffold in a workplace, other than a tower scaffold referred to in paragraph (2), shall not exceed 8 times the lesser of the base dimensions of the scaffold.
(4) Where the height of a tower scaffold in a workplace, excluding the handrails and their supports at the uppermost lift of the scaffold, exceeds 3 times the lesser of the base dimensions of the scaffold, the scaffold shall be effectively tied to the building or a rigid structure so as to prevent toppling.
(5) Any tower scaffold which can be moved on casters shall —
(a) be constructed with due regard to its stability and, if necessary, adequately weighted at the base;
(b) be used only on a firm and even surface; and
(c) be provided with a positive locking device on each caster to hold the scaffold in position.
(6) Duty of employer / principal to ensure that no more than 2 work platforms shall be used on a tower scaffold in the workplace at any one time.
(7) Duty of employer / principal to ensure that —
(i) no tower scaffold is moved except by applying force at or near the base;
(ii) the casters are locked to hold the tower scaffold in position while the person is on the tower scaffold; and
(iii) no person remains on the tower scaffold when it is being moved.
Scaffolds and work platforms erected on cantilever or jib supports
52.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (4) are complied with.
(2) A scaffold in a workplace that is erected on cantilever or jib supports shall be adequately supported, fixed and anchored on the supports to prevent displacement.
(3) The cantilever or jib supports used to support the scaffold shall —
(a) have outriggers of adequate length and cross section; and
(b) be constructed in accordance with the design and drawings of a professional engineer.
(4) Where a work platform in a workplace rests on bearers that let into a wall at one end and it does not have other support, the bearers shall —
(a) pass through the wall;
(b) be of adequate strength; and
(c) be securely fastened on the other side of the wall.
(5) For the purposes of this regulation and regulation 53, ‘‘cantilever or jib support’’ includes any structure, including a bracket or beam, that projects beyond a fulcrum or point of attachment and that is not supported directly from the ground or floor below.
Design of cantilever or jib supports by professional engineer
53.—(1) A professional engineer who designs a cantilever or jib support to —
(a) take such measures to ensure that his design can be executed safely by any person
who constructs or uses the cantilever or jib support according to his design; and
(b) provide to any person who constructs or is to construct the cantilever or jib support, all design documentation (including all relevant calculations, drawings and construction
procedures) as is necessary to facilitate the proper construction of the cantilever or jib support according to his design.
(2) Occupier of a workplace in which a scaffold is erected on cantilever or jib supports to ensure that the scaffold is not used unless —
(a) the scaffold (including the cantilever or jib support) has been examined by the professional engineer after its erection or installation, and a certificate stating that the scaffold is safe
for use has been obtained from the professional engineer;
(b) the design and drawings certified by the professional engineer and the certificate referred to in sub-paragraph (a) are kept available at the workplace for inspection by an inspector; and
(c) the scaffold has been inspected by a professional engineer at least once every 3 months to ensure that it is safe for use.
(3) The professional engineer to immediately inform the occupier when he discovers any defect in a scaffold in the course of his examination or inspection.
(4) Occupier of the workplace, upon being informed of any defect in a scaffold, to immediately take action to rectify the defect before the scaffold is used.
(5) Any person who contravenes paragraph (2)(b) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Hanging scaffolds
54.—(1) The responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (4) are complied with.
(2) A hanging scaffold in a workplace shall be —
(a) constructed before being hung into position on a building, ship or other structure;
(b) securely anchored to the hull or any other part of the building, ship or structure to prevent lateral movement or sway;
(c) constructed so that the work platform is in a horizontal plane; and
(d) provided with safe means of access to and egress from its platform by means of stairs or ladders.
(3) For the purposes of paragraph (2)(d), stairs or ladders —
(a) shall be placed in such a manner as to prevent any person from falling; and
(b) shall not rise to a vertical distance of more than 3m between landings.
(4) A hanging scaffold from which a person may fall more than 2m shall be constructed and installed in accordance with the design and drawings of a professional engineer.
(7) Any person who contravenes paragraph (6) shall be fined on conviction not exceeding $2,000.
Personal protective equipment for users of hanging scaffolds
55.—(1) Duty of employer / principal under whose direction any person uses or is to
use any hanging scaffold in a workplace, to provide to the person —
(i) a safety harness attached with a shock absorbing device; and
(ii) sufficient and secured anchorage by means of an independent life line or other equally effective means.
(2) Duty of the person who uses any hanging scaffold to use the safety harness attached with a shock absorbing device provided to him.
(3) Any person who contravenes paragraph (2) shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Trestle scaffolds
56.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2), (5) and (6) are complied with.
(2) Subject to paragraph (3), no trestle scaffold in a workplace shall —
(a) be constructed with more than 3 tiers; or
(b) have a work platform more than 4.5m above the ground or floor or other surfaces upon which the scaffold is erected.
(3) Paragraph (2) shall not apply to a trestle scaffold constructed in accordance with the design and drawings of a professional engineer.
(5) No trestle scaffold shall be erected on a scaffold platform unless —
(a) the width of the platform is such as to leave sufficient clear
space for the transport of materials; and
(b) the trestles or uprights are firmly attached to the platform
and adequately braced to prevent displacement.
(6) No trestle scaffold shall be erected on a suspended scaffold.
(7) Occupier of a workplace in which a trestle scaffold is constructed or erected to ensure that no trestle scaffold referred to in paragraph (3) is used unless the design and drawings certified by the professional engineer are kept available at the workplace for inspection by an inspector.
(8) Any person who contravenes paragraph (7) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
51.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (5) are complied with.
(2) The height of a tower scaffold erected or installed on board a ship in a shipyard shall not exceed 4 times the lesser of the base dimensions of the scaffold.
(3) The height of a tower scaffold in a workplace, other than a tower scaffold referred to in paragraph (2), shall not exceed 8 times the lesser of the base dimensions of the scaffold.
(4) Where the height of a tower scaffold in a workplace, excluding the handrails and their supports at the uppermost lift of the scaffold, exceeds 3 times the lesser of the base dimensions of the scaffold, the scaffold shall be effectively tied to the building or a rigid structure so as to prevent toppling.
(5) Any tower scaffold which can be moved on casters shall —
(a) be constructed with due regard to its stability and, if necessary, adequately weighted at the base;
(b) be used only on a firm and even surface; and
(c) be provided with a positive locking device on each caster to hold the scaffold in position.
(6) Duty of employer / principal to ensure that no more than 2 work platforms shall be used on a tower scaffold in the workplace at any one time.
(7) Duty of employer / principal to ensure that —
(i) no tower scaffold is moved except by applying force at or near the base;
(ii) the casters are locked to hold the tower scaffold in position while the person is on the tower scaffold; and
(iii) no person remains on the tower scaffold when it is being moved.
Scaffolds and work platforms erected on cantilever or jib supports
52.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (4) are complied with.
(2) A scaffold in a workplace that is erected on cantilever or jib supports shall be adequately supported, fixed and anchored on the supports to prevent displacement.
(3) The cantilever or jib supports used to support the scaffold shall —
(a) have outriggers of adequate length and cross section; and
(b) be constructed in accordance with the design and drawings of a professional engineer.
(4) Where a work platform in a workplace rests on bearers that let into a wall at one end and it does not have other support, the bearers shall —
(a) pass through the wall;
(b) be of adequate strength; and
(c) be securely fastened on the other side of the wall.
(5) For the purposes of this regulation and regulation 53, ‘‘cantilever or jib support’’ includes any structure, including a bracket or beam, that projects beyond a fulcrum or point of attachment and that is not supported directly from the ground or floor below.
Design of cantilever or jib supports by professional engineer
53.—(1) A professional engineer who designs a cantilever or jib support to —
(a) take such measures to ensure that his design can be executed safely by any person
who constructs or uses the cantilever or jib support according to his design; and
(b) provide to any person who constructs or is to construct the cantilever or jib support, all design documentation (including all relevant calculations, drawings and construction
procedures) as is necessary to facilitate the proper construction of the cantilever or jib support according to his design.
(2) Occupier of a workplace in which a scaffold is erected on cantilever or jib supports to ensure that the scaffold is not used unless —
(a) the scaffold (including the cantilever or jib support) has been examined by the professional engineer after its erection or installation, and a certificate stating that the scaffold is safe
for use has been obtained from the professional engineer;
(b) the design and drawings certified by the professional engineer and the certificate referred to in sub-paragraph (a) are kept available at the workplace for inspection by an inspector; and
(c) the scaffold has been inspected by a professional engineer at least once every 3 months to ensure that it is safe for use.
(3) The professional engineer to immediately inform the occupier when he discovers any defect in a scaffold in the course of his examination or inspection.
(4) Occupier of the workplace, upon being informed of any defect in a scaffold, to immediately take action to rectify the defect before the scaffold is used.
(5) Any person who contravenes paragraph (2)(b) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Hanging scaffolds
54.—(1) The responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (4) are complied with.
(2) A hanging scaffold in a workplace shall be —
(a) constructed before being hung into position on a building, ship or other structure;
(b) securely anchored to the hull or any other part of the building, ship or structure to prevent lateral movement or sway;
(c) constructed so that the work platform is in a horizontal plane; and
(d) provided with safe means of access to and egress from its platform by means of stairs or ladders.
(3) For the purposes of paragraph (2)(d), stairs or ladders —
(a) shall be placed in such a manner as to prevent any person from falling; and
(b) shall not rise to a vertical distance of more than 3m between landings.
(4) A hanging scaffold from which a person may fall more than 2m shall be constructed and installed in accordance with the design and drawings of a professional engineer.
(7) Any person who contravenes paragraph (6) shall be fined on conviction not exceeding $2,000.
Personal protective equipment for users of hanging scaffolds
55.—(1) Duty of employer / principal under whose direction any person uses or is to
use any hanging scaffold in a workplace, to provide to the person —
(i) a safety harness attached with a shock absorbing device; and
(ii) sufficient and secured anchorage by means of an independent life line or other equally effective means.
(2) Duty of the person who uses any hanging scaffold to use the safety harness attached with a shock absorbing device provided to him.
(3) Any person who contravenes paragraph (2) shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Trestle scaffolds
56.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2), (5) and (6) are complied with.
(2) Subject to paragraph (3), no trestle scaffold in a workplace shall —
(a) be constructed with more than 3 tiers; or
(b) have a work platform more than 4.5m above the ground or floor or other surfaces upon which the scaffold is erected.
(3) Paragraph (2) shall not apply to a trestle scaffold constructed in accordance with the design and drawings of a professional engineer.
(5) No trestle scaffold shall be erected on a scaffold platform unless —
(a) the width of the platform is such as to leave sufficient clear
space for the transport of materials; and
(b) the trestles or uprights are firmly attached to the platform
and adequately braced to prevent displacement.
(6) No trestle scaffold shall be erected on a suspended scaffold.
(7) Occupier of a workplace in which a trestle scaffold is constructed or erected to ensure that no trestle scaffold referred to in paragraph (3) is used unless the design and drawings certified by the professional engineer are kept available at the workplace for inspection by an inspector.
(8) Any person who contravenes paragraph (7) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Workplace Safety and Health (Scaffold) Regulations 2011 - Part V (Suspended Scaffold)
42.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that no suspended scaffold is erected or installed unless —
(a) the outriggers or other supports are —
(i) of adequate length and strength;
(ii) properly installed and supported;
(iii) securely fixed to a building, ship or other structure by anchor bolts or other similar means, or where such fixing is not reasonably practicable, adequately and securely anchored at the inner ends; and
(iv) subject to paragraph (2), provided with rope guards of adequate strength at the outer ends to prevent the ropes from being displaced from the outriggers;
(b) the points of suspension are at adequate horizontal distances from the building face, the hull of the ship or any other structure;
(c) the suspension ropes are —
(i) of galvanised wire ropes;
(ii) of sound material, good construction and adequate strength, and free from patent defects;
(iii) securely attached to the outriggers or other supports and, if winch drums are used, to the winch drums; and
(iv) of such length that the platform is capable of being lowered to the ground or floor, and in the case of winches, that there are at least 2 turns of the rope remaining on each winch drum;
(d) the platform is —
(i) at least 500mm and not more than 750mm in width unless measures have been taken to prevent transverse tilting of the platform; and
(ii) so arranged or secured that, at each working position, the edge of the platform is as close as practicable to the work area and the distance between the platform and the work area is not more than 460mm; and
(e) boards, planks or decking used as platforms shall be capable of supporting a load of 670 kgf/sq m with due regard to the spacing of the supports.
(2) Paragraph (1)(a)(iv) shall not apply when the primary suspension wire ropes are suspended from the outer end of the outriggers or other supports by means which preclude the displacement of the wire rope from its point of suspension.
(3) Duty of the employer / principal of any person who uses or is to use any suspended scaffold to ensure that no person shall enter or leave the cradle of a suspended scaffold unless it is at rest on the ground or at any level which affords a safe means of access or egress.
Suspended scaffolds raised or lowered by climbers, winches or powered device
43.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (7) and (9) are complied with.
(2) No suspended scaffold that is raised or lowered by climbers, winches or any powered device shall be erected or installed unless —
(a) the suspended scaffold has been designed and constructed in accordance with a standard or code acceptable to the Commissioner;
(b) the climbers, winches or device is properly maintained;
(c) the climbers, winches or device is opened for inspection and servicing at least once in every 12 months to ensure that the drive mechanisms are in safe working order; and
(d) records of such inspection and servicing are kept for each climber, winch and device.
(3) The outriggers or overhead supports shall be spaced not more than 3.2m apart measured from the longitudinal centre line of one outrigger or support to such centre line of the adjacent outrigger or support, unless the prior approval in writing of the Commissioner has been obtained.
(4) Wire ropes used to suspend the work platform shall be vertical and taut.
(5) The climbers, winches or device shall be synchronised so that the work platform of the suspended scaffold is maintained level at all times.
(6) In the case of a suspended scaffold manufactured outside Singapore, the design of the suspended scaffold shall be certified by a professional engineer or a third-party inspection agency approved in writing by the Commissioner.
(7) Where the work platform of a suspended scaffold is supported by wire ropes, the outriggers or other overhead supports for the suspended scaffold shall be constructed in accordance with the design and drawings of a professional engineer.
(8) Professional engineer who designs any outrigger or overhead support for the suspended scaffold to —
(a) take such measures to ensure that his design can be executed safely by any person who constructs or uses the outrigger or other overhead support for the suspended scaffold according to his design; and
(b) provide to any person who constructs or is to construct the outrigger or other overhead support for the suspended scaffold, all design documentation (including all relevant
calculations, drawings and construction procedures) as is necessary to facilitate the proper construction of the outrigger or other overhead support for the suspended scaffold according to his design.
(9) Where a suspended scaffold has been re-positioned or shifted from one location to another within the same workplace, the suspended scaffold and its attachments shall be erected or installed in accordance with the design and drawings certified by the professional engineer.
(10) It shall be the duty of the occupier of a workplace in which a suspended scaffold is erected or installed to ensure that no suspended scaffold referred to in paragraph (7) shall be used unless the design and drawings certified by the professional engineer are kept available at
the workplace for inspection by an inspector.
(11) Any person who contravenes paragraph (10) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Safety device for suspended scaffolds
44.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) and (3) are complied with.
(2) Subject to paragraph (4), every suspended scaffold in a workplace that is raised or lowered by climbers, winches or a powered device shall be provided at each suspension point with a safety rope with an automatic safety device mounted on it.
(3) The safety rope with the automatic safety device referred to in paragraph (2) shall be capable of supporting the platform in the event of a failure of the primary suspension rope, winch, climber or any part of the device or mechanism used for raising or lowering the suspended scaffold.
(4) Paragraph (2) shall not apply if —
(a) the platform is supported on 2 independent suspension wire ropes at or near each end such that, in the event of a failure of one suspension wire rope, the other wire rope is capable
of sustaining the weight of the platform and its load and preventing it from tilting; or
(b) a system is incorporated which operates automatically to support the platform and its load in the event of a failure of the primary suspension rope.
Prohibition of overloading of suspended scaffolds
45. Occupier of a workplace in which a suspended scaffold is erected or installed to ensure that the suspended scaffold shall not at any time be loaded beyond the safe working load except in a test in the presence of an inspector or authorised examiner.
Suspended scaffolds counter-balanced by counter-weights
46.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (5) are complied with.
(2) In relation to a scaffold in a workplace, water or other liquids, earth, clay, sand, chippings or other aggregates shall not be used as counter-weights.
(3) Every portable counter-weight shall have its weight permanently and distinctly stamped, engraved or embossed thereon.
(4) Every counter-weight shall be securely attached at the inner end of the outriggers to prevent any accidental displacement or tampering by any person.
(5) The counter-balancing weight on any outrigger shall not be less than 3 times the weight necessary to balance the load on the projecting part of the outrigger when the suspended scaffold is fully loaded.
Prevention of sway
47. Responsible person to ensure that the work platform of a suspended scaffold shall be securely fastened to the building or other structure in such a manner and at such intervals as to prevent the platform from swaying.
Age limit of operator
48. Duty of the employer / principal under whose direction any person uses or is to
use any suspended scaffold in a workplace, to ensure that no person below the age of 18 years operates a climber, winch, powered device or mechanism used for raising or lowering a suspended scaffold.
PPE for users of suspended scaffolds
49.—(1) Duty of the employer / principal to provide to the person —
(i) a safety harness attached with a shock absorbing device; and
(ii) sufficient and secured anchorage by means of an independent life line or other equally effective means.
(2) Duty of the person who uses any suspended scaffold to use the safety harness attached with a shock absorbing device provided to him.
(3) Any person who contravenes paragraph (2) shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Notice to be displayed in suspended scaffolds
50.—(1) It shall be the duty of the responsible person to prominently display a notice in the cradle of a suspended scaffold in a workplace that is in a form readily understood by any person —
(a) stating the safe working load of the suspended scaffold;
(b) stating the maximum number of persons allowed to be in the suspended scaffold; and
(c) reminding the person to attach his safety harness to a secured anchorage at all times.
(2) Occupier of the workplace to ensure that the notice referred to in paragraph (1) is displayed at all times until the suspended scaffold is dismantled.
(a) the outriggers or other supports are —
(i) of adequate length and strength;
(ii) properly installed and supported;
(iii) securely fixed to a building, ship or other structure by anchor bolts or other similar means, or where such fixing is not reasonably practicable, adequately and securely anchored at the inner ends; and
(iv) subject to paragraph (2), provided with rope guards of adequate strength at the outer ends to prevent the ropes from being displaced from the outriggers;
(b) the points of suspension are at adequate horizontal distances from the building face, the hull of the ship or any other structure;
(c) the suspension ropes are —
(i) of galvanised wire ropes;
(ii) of sound material, good construction and adequate strength, and free from patent defects;
(iii) securely attached to the outriggers or other supports and, if winch drums are used, to the winch drums; and
(iv) of such length that the platform is capable of being lowered to the ground or floor, and in the case of winches, that there are at least 2 turns of the rope remaining on each winch drum;
(d) the platform is —
(i) at least 500mm and not more than 750mm in width unless measures have been taken to prevent transverse tilting of the platform; and
(ii) so arranged or secured that, at each working position, the edge of the platform is as close as practicable to the work area and the distance between the platform and the work area is not more than 460mm; and
(e) boards, planks or decking used as platforms shall be capable of supporting a load of 670 kgf/sq m with due regard to the spacing of the supports.
(2) Paragraph (1)(a)(iv) shall not apply when the primary suspension wire ropes are suspended from the outer end of the outriggers or other supports by means which preclude the displacement of the wire rope from its point of suspension.
(3) Duty of the employer / principal of any person who uses or is to use any suspended scaffold to ensure that no person shall enter or leave the cradle of a suspended scaffold unless it is at rest on the ground or at any level which affords a safe means of access or egress.
Suspended scaffolds raised or lowered by climbers, winches or powered device
43.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (7) and (9) are complied with.
(2) No suspended scaffold that is raised or lowered by climbers, winches or any powered device shall be erected or installed unless —
(a) the suspended scaffold has been designed and constructed in accordance with a standard or code acceptable to the Commissioner;
(b) the climbers, winches or device is properly maintained;
(c) the climbers, winches or device is opened for inspection and servicing at least once in every 12 months to ensure that the drive mechanisms are in safe working order; and
(d) records of such inspection and servicing are kept for each climber, winch and device.
(3) The outriggers or overhead supports shall be spaced not more than 3.2m apart measured from the longitudinal centre line of one outrigger or support to such centre line of the adjacent outrigger or support, unless the prior approval in writing of the Commissioner has been obtained.
(4) Wire ropes used to suspend the work platform shall be vertical and taut.
(5) The climbers, winches or device shall be synchronised so that the work platform of the suspended scaffold is maintained level at all times.
(6) In the case of a suspended scaffold manufactured outside Singapore, the design of the suspended scaffold shall be certified by a professional engineer or a third-party inspection agency approved in writing by the Commissioner.
(7) Where the work platform of a suspended scaffold is supported by wire ropes, the outriggers or other overhead supports for the suspended scaffold shall be constructed in accordance with the design and drawings of a professional engineer.
(8) Professional engineer who designs any outrigger or overhead support for the suspended scaffold to —
(a) take such measures to ensure that his design can be executed safely by any person who constructs or uses the outrigger or other overhead support for the suspended scaffold according to his design; and
(b) provide to any person who constructs or is to construct the outrigger or other overhead support for the suspended scaffold, all design documentation (including all relevant
calculations, drawings and construction procedures) as is necessary to facilitate the proper construction of the outrigger or other overhead support for the suspended scaffold according to his design.
(9) Where a suspended scaffold has been re-positioned or shifted from one location to another within the same workplace, the suspended scaffold and its attachments shall be erected or installed in accordance with the design and drawings certified by the professional engineer.
(10) It shall be the duty of the occupier of a workplace in which a suspended scaffold is erected or installed to ensure that no suspended scaffold referred to in paragraph (7) shall be used unless the design and drawings certified by the professional engineer are kept available at
the workplace for inspection by an inspector.
(11) Any person who contravenes paragraph (10) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Safety device for suspended scaffolds
44.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) and (3) are complied with.
(2) Subject to paragraph (4), every suspended scaffold in a workplace that is raised or lowered by climbers, winches or a powered device shall be provided at each suspension point with a safety rope with an automatic safety device mounted on it.
(3) The safety rope with the automatic safety device referred to in paragraph (2) shall be capable of supporting the platform in the event of a failure of the primary suspension rope, winch, climber or any part of the device or mechanism used for raising or lowering the suspended scaffold.
(4) Paragraph (2) shall not apply if —
(a) the platform is supported on 2 independent suspension wire ropes at or near each end such that, in the event of a failure of one suspension wire rope, the other wire rope is capable
of sustaining the weight of the platform and its load and preventing it from tilting; or
(b) a system is incorporated which operates automatically to support the platform and its load in the event of a failure of the primary suspension rope.
Prohibition of overloading of suspended scaffolds
45. Occupier of a workplace in which a suspended scaffold is erected or installed to ensure that the suspended scaffold shall not at any time be loaded beyond the safe working load except in a test in the presence of an inspector or authorised examiner.
Suspended scaffolds counter-balanced by counter-weights
46.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (5) are complied with.
(2) In relation to a scaffold in a workplace, water or other liquids, earth, clay, sand, chippings or other aggregates shall not be used as counter-weights.
(3) Every portable counter-weight shall have its weight permanently and distinctly stamped, engraved or embossed thereon.
(4) Every counter-weight shall be securely attached at the inner end of the outriggers to prevent any accidental displacement or tampering by any person.
(5) The counter-balancing weight on any outrigger shall not be less than 3 times the weight necessary to balance the load on the projecting part of the outrigger when the suspended scaffold is fully loaded.
Prevention of sway
47. Responsible person to ensure that the work platform of a suspended scaffold shall be securely fastened to the building or other structure in such a manner and at such intervals as to prevent the platform from swaying.
Age limit of operator
48. Duty of the employer / principal under whose direction any person uses or is to
use any suspended scaffold in a workplace, to ensure that no person below the age of 18 years operates a climber, winch, powered device or mechanism used for raising or lowering a suspended scaffold.
PPE for users of suspended scaffolds
49.—(1) Duty of the employer / principal to provide to the person —
(i) a safety harness attached with a shock absorbing device; and
(ii) sufficient and secured anchorage by means of an independent life line or other equally effective means.
(2) Duty of the person who uses any suspended scaffold to use the safety harness attached with a shock absorbing device provided to him.
(3) Any person who contravenes paragraph (2) shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Notice to be displayed in suspended scaffolds
50.—(1) It shall be the duty of the responsible person to prominently display a notice in the cradle of a suspended scaffold in a workplace that is in a form readily understood by any person —
(a) stating the safe working load of the suspended scaffold;
(b) stating the maximum number of persons allowed to be in the suspended scaffold; and
(c) reminding the person to attach his safety harness to a secured anchorage at all times.
(2) Occupier of the workplace to ensure that the notice referred to in paragraph (1) is displayed at all times until the suspended scaffold is dismantled.
Workplace Safety and Health (Scaffold) Regulations 2011 - Part IV (Timber Scaffolds)
Timber scaffolds not to be used in shipyards
37. Duty of the occupier of a shipyard to ensure that no timber scaffold is used in the shipyard.
Materials for timber scaffolds
38.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (7) are complied with.
(2) Timber used for any scaffold in a workplace —
(a) shall be of a suitable quality;
(b) shall be in good condition;
(c) shall have the bark completely stripped off; and
(d) shall not be painted or treated in any way such that defects in the wood cannot be seen easily.
(3) Timber used for any scaffold in a workplace shall comprise —
(a) Bintangor rollers; or
(b) other species of timber rollers which are of similar strength, durability and resilience as Bintangor rollers and which are approved in writing by the Commissioner.
(4) Every standard of a timber scaffold in a workplace shall have a diameter of at least 50mm throughout its length.
(5) Every timber roller used as a ledger or horizontal bracing, transom or putlog in a scaffold in a workplace shall have a diameter of at least 38mm at the tip.
(6) The members or components of a timber scaffold shall be lashed using rattan strips or other material approved in writing by the Commissioner.
(7) The lashing required shall be done with strips not less than 1.8m in length with a minimum of 6 turns per strip.
Construction of timber scaffolds
39.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (5) are complied with.
(2) Timber scaffold shall not exceed 15m in height.
(3) No timber scaffold with a single row of standards shall be erected in a workplace.
(4) Every timber scaffold in a workplace shall be —
(a) securely tied and braced at the corners; and
(b) rigidly anchored to the building or other structure at regular close intervals.
(5) Transverse and longitudinal braces of a timber scaffold shall be securely placed and lashed to the standards.
Ties for timber scaffolds
40.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (5) are complied with.
(2) A timber scaffold in a workplace shall be tied to a building or other structure by horizontal ties.
(3) Subject to paragraph (4), each tie shall —
(a) pass through an opening or hole in the wall in the building or structure; and
(b) be secured at a right angle to another pole which shall be fixed firmly inside the building or structure.
(4) Where it is not practicable to install any tie referred to in paragraph (3), the timber scaffold shall be tied to a building or other structure —
(a) using ties which are constructed and installed in accordance with the design and drawings of a professional engineer; or
(b) by such other means which are approved in writing by the Commissioner.
(5) Ties made up of wires shall not be used.
(6) Duty of a professional engineer who designs any tie of a timber scaffold referred to in paragraph (4)(a) to —
(a) take such measures to ensure that his design can be executed safely by any person who constructs, installs or uses the tie according to his design; and
(b) provide to any person who constructs or installs or is to construct or install the tie of the timber scaffold, all design documentation (including all relevant calculations, drawings
and construction procedures) as is necessary to facilitate the proper construction or installation of the tie according to his design.
(7) Duty of the occupier of a workplace to ensure that no timber scaffold with ties referred
to in paragraph (4)(a) is used unless the design and drawings certified by the professional engineer are kept available at the workplace for inspection by an inspector.
(8) Any person who contravenes paragraph (7) shall be guilty and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Duration of use of timber scaffolds
41. Duty of the occupier of a workplace in which a timber scaffold is erected to ensure that the timber scaffold shall be dismantled within a period of 9 months after its erection.
37. Duty of the occupier of a shipyard to ensure that no timber scaffold is used in the shipyard.
Materials for timber scaffolds
38.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (7) are complied with.
(2) Timber used for any scaffold in a workplace —
(a) shall be of a suitable quality;
(b) shall be in good condition;
(c) shall have the bark completely stripped off; and
(d) shall not be painted or treated in any way such that defects in the wood cannot be seen easily.
(3) Timber used for any scaffold in a workplace shall comprise —
(a) Bintangor rollers; or
(b) other species of timber rollers which are of similar strength, durability and resilience as Bintangor rollers and which are approved in writing by the Commissioner.
(4) Every standard of a timber scaffold in a workplace shall have a diameter of at least 50mm throughout its length.
(5) Every timber roller used as a ledger or horizontal bracing, transom or putlog in a scaffold in a workplace shall have a diameter of at least 38mm at the tip.
(6) The members or components of a timber scaffold shall be lashed using rattan strips or other material approved in writing by the Commissioner.
(7) The lashing required shall be done with strips not less than 1.8m in length with a minimum of 6 turns per strip.
Construction of timber scaffolds
39.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (5) are complied with.
(2) Timber scaffold shall not exceed 15m in height.
(3) No timber scaffold with a single row of standards shall be erected in a workplace.
(4) Every timber scaffold in a workplace shall be —
(a) securely tied and braced at the corners; and
(b) rigidly anchored to the building or other structure at regular close intervals.
(5) Transverse and longitudinal braces of a timber scaffold shall be securely placed and lashed to the standards.
Ties for timber scaffolds
40.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (5) are complied with.
(2) A timber scaffold in a workplace shall be tied to a building or other structure by horizontal ties.
(3) Subject to paragraph (4), each tie shall —
(a) pass through an opening or hole in the wall in the building or structure; and
(b) be secured at a right angle to another pole which shall be fixed firmly inside the building or structure.
(4) Where it is not practicable to install any tie referred to in paragraph (3), the timber scaffold shall be tied to a building or other structure —
(a) using ties which are constructed and installed in accordance with the design and drawings of a professional engineer; or
(b) by such other means which are approved in writing by the Commissioner.
(5) Ties made up of wires shall not be used.
(6) Duty of a professional engineer who designs any tie of a timber scaffold referred to in paragraph (4)(a) to —
(a) take such measures to ensure that his design can be executed safely by any person who constructs, installs or uses the tie according to his design; and
(b) provide to any person who constructs or installs or is to construct or install the tie of the timber scaffold, all design documentation (including all relevant calculations, drawings
and construction procedures) as is necessary to facilitate the proper construction or installation of the tie according to his design.
(7) Duty of the occupier of a workplace to ensure that no timber scaffold with ties referred
to in paragraph (4)(a) is used unless the design and drawings certified by the professional engineer are kept available at the workplace for inspection by an inspector.
(8) Any person who contravenes paragraph (7) shall be guilty and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Duration of use of timber scaffolds
41. Duty of the occupier of a workplace in which a timber scaffold is erected to ensure that the timber scaffold shall be dismantled within a period of 9 months after its erection.
Workplace Safety and Health (Scaffold) Regulations 2011 - Part III (Metal Scaffolds)
Approved metal scaffolds
29. Responsible person to ensure that no metal scaffold shall be erected or installed in a workplace unless —
(a) it has been type-tested by a recognised testing body in accordance with a standard or specification acceptable to the Commissioner; and
(b) it complies with such conditions as the Commissioner may think fit to impose.
Design of certain metal scaffolds by professional engineer
30.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that every metal scaffold —
(a) exceeding 15m in height in any shipyard; or
(b) exceeding 30m in height in any workplace other than in a shipyard,
be erected or installed in accordance with the design and drawings of a professional engineer.
(2) Duty of a professional engineer who designs any metal scaffold referred to in paragraph (1) to —
(a) take such measures to ensure that his design can be executed safely by any person who erects, installs or uses the scaffold according to his design; and
(b) provide to any person who erects or installs or is to erect or install the scaffold, all design documentation (including all relevant calculations, drawings and construction procedures) as is necessary to facilitate the proper erection or installation of the scaffold according to his design.
(3) Duty of the occupier of a workplace in which a metal scaffold referred to in paragraph (1) is erected or installed to ensure the scaffold is not used unless —
(a) the scaffold has been examined by the professional engineer after its erection or installation, and a certificate stating that the scaffold is safe for use has been obtained from the professional engineer;
(b) the design and drawings certified by the professional engineer and the certificate referred to in sub-paragraph (a) are kept available at the workplace for inspection by an inspector; and
(c) the scaffold has been inspected by a professional engineer at least once every 3 months to ensure that it is safe for use.
(4) Duty of the professional engineer, when he discovers any defect in a metal scaffold in the course of his examination or inspection referred to in paragraph (3), to immediately inform the
occupier of the workplace.
(5) Duty of the occupier referred to in paragraph (4), upon being informed of any defect in a scaffold under that paragraph, to immediately take action to rectify the defect before the scaffold is used.
(6) Any person who contravenes paragraph (3)(b) shall be guilty and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Ties for metal scaffolds
31.—(1) Duty of the responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (7) are complied with.
(2) Every alternate lift and every uppermost lift of an independent tied metal scaffold in a workplace shall be effectively tied to the building or structure by means of ties.
(3) Ties shall be located no further than one bay from the ends of the independent tied metal scaffold and thereafter, at intermediate spacing of not more than 3 bays or 7.5 m apart, whichever is less.
(4) Ties other than tie tubes and couplers shall not be used without the approval in writing of the Commissioner.
(5) Every tie under this regulation shall conform with the following:
(a) tie tubes shall be attached by right angle couplers to the outside ledger or standard or, in the case of an independent scaffold, to both the inside and outside standards as close as possible to the junction of the standards and ledgers; and
(b) the ends of the tie tubes shall be attached to the building or structure by one of the following methods:
(i) the tie tubes shall form part of a yoke constructed of tubes and couplers which passes around and bears hard against the sides of a column, pier, beam or similar structural members;
(ii) each tie tube shall pass through the wall and be secured with 2 pieces of tube of minimum length of 300mm nd shall be attached one on each side of, and bear hard against, the wall;
(iii) each tie tube shall be attached to a reveal tie not greater than 1.5 m in length but reveal ties shall not be used where a horizontal diagonal plan bracing is used; or
(iv) each tie tube shall pass through ring bolts which shall be secured by casting in or being anchored in the wall.
(6) Every tie tube shall be perpendicular to the longitudinal plane of the scaffold and, where this is not practicable, the deviation from the perpendicular shall not exceed 15°.
(7) Every tie shall be capable of withstanding a force of 1,000 kgf applied in either direction along the length of the tie.
Transoms for modular or tube-and-coupler scaffolds
32. It shall be the duty of the responsible person to ensure that every modular scaffold or tube-and-coupler scaffold in a workplace is provided with transverse horizontal members or transoms for each lift.
Spigots, jointpins or sleeves
33.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (6) are complied with.
(2) Spigots, jointpins or sleeves shall be used to connect one standard of a metal scaffold in a workplace to another standard.
(3) Where spigots, jointpins or sleeves are used to locate and connect one standard to another, such spigots, jointpins or sleeves shall —
(a) permit full bearing over the whole bearing area at the ends of the standards; and
(b) have such external or internal dimensions that the maximum difference of mating diameters in any part between the spigot, jointpin or sleeve and the other standard does not exceed 1.6mm.
(4) Spigots and jointpins shall engage in the ends of the standards by at least 70mm.
(5) Sleeves shall cover the end of the standard by at least 70 mm.
(6) The standards shall be securely held if they are connected by the spigots, jointpins or sleeves.
Adjustable base plates
34. Where an adjustable base plate is used on a standard of a metal scaffold in a workplace and the adjustment exceeds 150mm, it is the duty of the responsible person to ensure that the standard
is tied longitudinally to the adjacent standard or standards at a height of not more than 460mm above the supporting surface by right angle or swivel couplers.
Frame or modular scaffolds to be erected in one plane
35. Responsible person to ensure that every frame or modular scaffold in a workplace is erected such that every lift is horizontal and in one plane.
Cross brace not to be used as means of access or egress
36. Duty of the employer / principal of any person who uses or is to use any frame scaffold to ensure that no cross brace on the frame scaffold shall be used as a means of access or egress by the person.
29. Responsible person to ensure that no metal scaffold shall be erected or installed in a workplace unless —
(a) it has been type-tested by a recognised testing body in accordance with a standard or specification acceptable to the Commissioner; and
(b) it complies with such conditions as the Commissioner may think fit to impose.
Design of certain metal scaffolds by professional engineer
30.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that every metal scaffold —
(a) exceeding 15m in height in any shipyard; or
(b) exceeding 30m in height in any workplace other than in a shipyard,
be erected or installed in accordance with the design and drawings of a professional engineer.
(2) Duty of a professional engineer who designs any metal scaffold referred to in paragraph (1) to —
(a) take such measures to ensure that his design can be executed safely by any person who erects, installs or uses the scaffold according to his design; and
(b) provide to any person who erects or installs or is to erect or install the scaffold, all design documentation (including all relevant calculations, drawings and construction procedures) as is necessary to facilitate the proper erection or installation of the scaffold according to his design.
(3) Duty of the occupier of a workplace in which a metal scaffold referred to in paragraph (1) is erected or installed to ensure the scaffold is not used unless —
(a) the scaffold has been examined by the professional engineer after its erection or installation, and a certificate stating that the scaffold is safe for use has been obtained from the professional engineer;
(b) the design and drawings certified by the professional engineer and the certificate referred to in sub-paragraph (a) are kept available at the workplace for inspection by an inspector; and
(c) the scaffold has been inspected by a professional engineer at least once every 3 months to ensure that it is safe for use.
(4) Duty of the professional engineer, when he discovers any defect in a metal scaffold in the course of his examination or inspection referred to in paragraph (3), to immediately inform the
occupier of the workplace.
(5) Duty of the occupier referred to in paragraph (4), upon being informed of any defect in a scaffold under that paragraph, to immediately take action to rectify the defect before the scaffold is used.
(6) Any person who contravenes paragraph (3)(b) shall be guilty and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Ties for metal scaffolds
31.—(1) Duty of the responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (7) are complied with.
(2) Every alternate lift and every uppermost lift of an independent tied metal scaffold in a workplace shall be effectively tied to the building or structure by means of ties.
(3) Ties shall be located no further than one bay from the ends of the independent tied metal scaffold and thereafter, at intermediate spacing of not more than 3 bays or 7.5 m apart, whichever is less.
(4) Ties other than tie tubes and couplers shall not be used without the approval in writing of the Commissioner.
(5) Every tie under this regulation shall conform with the following:
(a) tie tubes shall be attached by right angle couplers to the outside ledger or standard or, in the case of an independent scaffold, to both the inside and outside standards as close as possible to the junction of the standards and ledgers; and
(b) the ends of the tie tubes shall be attached to the building or structure by one of the following methods:
(i) the tie tubes shall form part of a yoke constructed of tubes and couplers which passes around and bears hard against the sides of a column, pier, beam or similar structural members;
(ii) each tie tube shall pass through the wall and be secured with 2 pieces of tube of minimum length of 300mm nd shall be attached one on each side of, and bear hard against, the wall;
(iii) each tie tube shall be attached to a reveal tie not greater than 1.5 m in length but reveal ties shall not be used where a horizontal diagonal plan bracing is used; or
(iv) each tie tube shall pass through ring bolts which shall be secured by casting in or being anchored in the wall.
(6) Every tie tube shall be perpendicular to the longitudinal plane of the scaffold and, where this is not practicable, the deviation from the perpendicular shall not exceed 15°.
(7) Every tie shall be capable of withstanding a force of 1,000 kgf applied in either direction along the length of the tie.
Transoms for modular or tube-and-coupler scaffolds
32. It shall be the duty of the responsible person to ensure that every modular scaffold or tube-and-coupler scaffold in a workplace is provided with transverse horizontal members or transoms for each lift.
Spigots, jointpins or sleeves
33.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (6) are complied with.
(2) Spigots, jointpins or sleeves shall be used to connect one standard of a metal scaffold in a workplace to another standard.
(3) Where spigots, jointpins or sleeves are used to locate and connect one standard to another, such spigots, jointpins or sleeves shall —
(a) permit full bearing over the whole bearing area at the ends of the standards; and
(b) have such external or internal dimensions that the maximum difference of mating diameters in any part between the spigot, jointpin or sleeve and the other standard does not exceed 1.6mm.
(4) Spigots and jointpins shall engage in the ends of the standards by at least 70mm.
(5) Sleeves shall cover the end of the standard by at least 70 mm.
(6) The standards shall be securely held if they are connected by the spigots, jointpins or sleeves.
Adjustable base plates
34. Where an adjustable base plate is used on a standard of a metal scaffold in a workplace and the adjustment exceeds 150mm, it is the duty of the responsible person to ensure that the standard
is tied longitudinally to the adjacent standard or standards at a height of not more than 460mm above the supporting surface by right angle or swivel couplers.
Frame or modular scaffolds to be erected in one plane
35. Responsible person to ensure that every frame or modular scaffold in a workplace is erected such that every lift is horizontal and in one plane.
Cross brace not to be used as means of access or egress
36. Duty of the employer / principal of any person who uses or is to use any frame scaffold to ensure that no cross brace on the frame scaffold shall be used as a means of access or egress by the person.
Workplace Safety and Health (Scaffold) Regulations 2011 - Part I & II (General)
1. These Regulations come into operation on 10th September 2011.
Application
3. These Regulations shall apply to every workplace in which any scaffold is, is being or is to be constructed, erected, installed, used, re-positioned, altered, maintained, repaired or dismantled, whether such work or use of the scaffold commences before, on or after 10th September 2011.
Definition
"responsible person", in relation to any workplace in which a person carries out or is to carry out any work involving the construction, erection, installation, re-positioning, alteration, maintenance, repair or dismantling of a scaffold, means —
(a) his employer; or
(b) the principal under whose direction he carries out or is to carry out any such work;
PART II - GENERAL PROVISIONS
Only approved scaffold contractor to construct, erect, install, re-position, alter, maintain, repair or dismantle certain scaffolds, except for "excluded scaffold"
"excluded scaffold" means—
(a) a tower scaffold;
(b) a trestle scaffold; or
(c) a scaffold (other than a suspended scaffold, hanging scaffold or a scaffold erected on cantilever or jib supports) which, whencompleted and excluding the handrails and their supports at the uppermost lift of the scaffold, is less than 4m in height.
Scaffold erectors
5. Duty of the responsible person to ensure that no person is involved in the construction, erection, installation, re-positioning, alteration, maintenance, repair or dismantling of a scaffold in a workplace unless he has successfully completed a training course acceptable to the Commissioner, to equip him to perform
the work of a scaffold erector.
Scaffold supervisor
6.—(1) Duty of the responsible person to appoint a scaffold supervisor before any construction, erection, installation, re-positioning, alteration, maintenance, repair or dismantling of a scaffold in a workplace.
(2) The responsible person shall not appoint any person as a scaffold supervisor unless the person is one —
(a) who has successfully completed a training course acceptable to the Commissioner, to equip him to be a scaffold supervisor; and
(b) whom the responsible person reasonably believes is competent to perform the functions and duties of a scaffold supervisor.
Personal protective equipment for scaffold erectors
7.—(1)Duty of the responsible person to provide to scaffold erector involved—
(a) a safety harness attached with a shock absorbing device; and
(b) sufficient and secured anchorage by means of an independent life line or other equally effective means.
(2) Duty of the scaffold erector to use the safety harness attached with a shock absorbing device provided to him.
(3) Any person who contravenes paragraph (2) shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine
not exceeding $2,000.
Supervision of construction, erection, installation, re-positioning, alteration, maintenance, repair or dismantling of scaffolds
8. Duty of the responsible person to ensure that no scaffold is constructed, erected, installed, re-positioned, altered, maintained, repaired or dismantled in a workplace except under the immediate supervision of a scaffold supervisor.
Construction and materials
9.—(1) Duty of the responsible person to ensure that every scaffold, and every member or component thereof, shall be —
(a) of sound material, good construction and adequate strength;
(b) free from patent defects; and
(c) suitable and safe for the purpose for which it is intended.
(2) Duty of the responsible person to ensure that every scaffold erected at a building under construction, so far as is reasonably practicable, be erected such that it precedes the construction of the uppermost permanent floor of the building by not less than one metre above that floor.
(3) Where the height of the scaffold referred to in paragraph (2)extends beyond the uppermost permanent floor by 2 metres or more, the responsible person to ensure that the scaffold is adequately supported to prevent its collapse.
Foundation of scaffolds
10.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (5) are complied with.
(2) Every scaffold shall be constructed, erected or installed on structures or foundations of adequate strength.
(3) Where a scaffold is to be founded on soil, the soil shall be adequately consolidated.
(4) In the case of a scaffold exceeding 15m in height or being erected on poorly drained soil, base plates shall bear upon sole plates that are —
(a) of strength not less than 670 kgf per square metre; and
(b) of a length suitable to distribute the load.
(5) There shall be no cavity under the sole plate immediately below any standard of a scaffold in a workplace.
Scaffolds supported by buildings, ships or other structures
11.—(1) The responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) and (3) are complied with.
(2) No part of a building, ship or other structure shall be used as support for any part of a scaffold in a workplace unless it is sufficiently stable, and of sound material and adequate strength to afford safe support.
(3) Overhanging eaves gutters shall not be used as supports for any part of a scaffold in a workplace unless they have been specially designed as walkways and are of adequate strength.
Designated access point for scaffolds
12.—(1) Duty of the occupier of a workplace to ensure that every scaffold shall have at least one designated access point.
(2) Duty of the occupier of a workplace to ensure that every designated access point is —
(a) clearly marked with a sign or label; and
(b) made safe for use by any person.
Stairs and ladders
13. Duty of the responsible person to ensure that stairs or ladders —
(a) are provided to enable persons to gain access from one level of any scaffold in a workplace to another level; and
(b) so far as is reasonably practicable, are installed within the scaffold.
Standards and ledgers
14.—(1) Duty of the responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (8) are complied with.
(2) The standards of a scaffold in a workplace shall be —
(a) plumb where practicable;
(b) fixed sufficiently close together to secure the stability of the scaffold, having regard to all the circumstances;
(c) in the case of a timber scaffold, spaced not more than 1.5 metres apart; and
(d) in the case of a metal scaffold, subject to paragraph (3), spaced not more than 2.5 metres apart.
(3) No metal scaffold with standards spaced more than 2.5 metres apart shall be constructed or erected in a workplace unless it has been approved in writing by the Commissioner.
(4) Subject to paragraph (5), a standard of a scaffold in a workplace shall be placed on an adequate and secured sole plate in order that the foot of the standard does not rest directly on the ground or supporting surface, so as to prevent any vertical displacement of the foot.
(5) Where the floor or supporting structure is of sufficient rigidity to evenly distribute the load imposed upon it by the standard without causing any vertical displacement of the standard, the provision of a sole plate under the standard shall not be necessary.
(6) The foot of a standard of any frame or modular scaffold in a workplace shall be secured to a base plate so that it does not rest directly on the ground or supporting surface.
(7) The ledgers of a metal scaffold in a workplace shall be spaced at vertical intervals of not more than 2m.
(8) The ledgers of a timber scaffold in a workplace shall —
(a) as far as possible, be horizontal;
(b) be spaced at vertical intervals of not more than 1.8 metres; and
(c) be securely fastened to the standards.
Transoms
15. Responsible person to ensure that transoms are located at or near the intersections of standards and ledgers of a scaffold in a workplace.
Bracing
16.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (8) are complied with.
(2) Every scaffold in a workplace shall be effectively braced by means of longitudinal and transverse bracing systems which shall extend from the base to the top of the scaffold.
(3) The joints in bracing members shall be lapped or spliced.
(4) Longitudinal bracing members shall be continuous and fixed at approximately 45° to the horizontal.
(5) Each lift shall be crossed by at least one longitudinal bracing member in every 10m length of the scaffold.
(6) Subject to paragraph (7), a transverse bracing system shall be provided at each end of the scaffold and at intervals of not more than 10 bays.
(7) A transverse bracing system need not be provided where —
(a) vertical transverse frames are provided for the full height of the scaffold and at each pair of standards; and
(b) the frames are type-tested by a recognised testing body in accordance with a standard or specification acceptable to the Commissioner.
(8) Every frame scaffold in a workplace shall be provided with horizontal bracings or lacings at intervals of not more than every 5 lifts.
Gear for suspension of scaffolds
17.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (4) are complied with.
(2) Every chain, rope and lifting gear used for the suspension of a scaffold in a workplace shall be of sound material, adequate strength and suitable quality, and in good condition.
(3) Any chain, rope and metal tube used for the suspension of a scaffold in a workplace, other than a suspended scaffold, shall be—
(a) properly and securely fastened to safe anchorage points and to the scaffold ledgers or other main supporting members;
(b) positioned so as to ensure stability of the scaffold;
(c) approximately vertical; and
(d) kept taut.
(4) Every scaffold in a workplace that is suspended by means of chains or ropes shall be secured to prevent undue horizontal movement while it is used as a work platform.
Work platforms
18.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (6) are complied with.
(2) Work platforms in a workplace shall be provided —
(a) at any place of work which does not afford a proper and secure foothold; and
(b) in the case of a building under construction, around the edge of the building at every uppermost permanent floor which is under construction.
(3) Notwithstanding paragraph (2) —
(a) work platforms shall be provided at intervals of not less than every alternate lift of any scaffold, except a tower scaffold or a trestle scaffold, used in any premises where building
operations are being carried on; and
(b) unless approval is given in writing by the Commissioner, the vertical distance between any 2 work platforms shall not exceed 4m.
(4) Every work platform provided under paragraph (3) shall cover the lift of a scaffold throughout its entire length.
(5) Every work platform provided under this regulation shall —
(a) be closely boarded, planked or decked;
(b) be at least 500mm wide; and
(c) not have any opening except to allow access to that work platform.
(6) The distance between a work platform and any building, ship or other structure shall be as narrow as is reasonably practicable and shall not exceed 300mm.
Loading requirements for scaffolds
19.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that signboards stating the maximum permissible weight of tools and materials and the maximum number of persons permissible on each bay are prominently displayed at suitable locations on the scaffold in a workplace.
(2) Duty of the occupier of the workplace to ensure that the signboards referred to in paragraph (1) are displayed at all times until the scaffold is dismantled.
(3) The occupier of a workplace to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (4) to (8) are complied with.
(4) Subject to regulation 45, a scaffold in a workplace shall not be overloaded and, so far as is reasonably practicable, the load thereon shall be evenly distributed.
(5) When any material is transferred to or from a scaffold in a workplace, the material shall be moved or deposited without imposing any violent shock.
(6) The maximum loading for persons and materials allowed on any work platform in any bay of a scaffold in a workplace shall be —
(a) in the case of a timber scaffold, 75 kgf /sq m; or
(b) in any other case, 220 kgf /sq m.
(7) The maximum number of persons allowed on any work platform in any bay of a timber or metal scaffold in a workplace shall be —
(a) in the case of a timber scaffold, not more than 2 persons; and
(b) in the case of a metal scaffold, not more than 4 persons.
(8) The maximum number of persons allowed in any bay of a timber or metal scaffold in a workplace shall be —
(a) in the case of a timber scaffold, not more than 4 persons; and
(b) in the case of a metal scaffold, not more than 8 persons.
Design by professional engineer
20.—(1) It shall be the duty of the responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) and (3) are complied with.
(2) Subject to regulation 19(6) and (7), a work platform and any support thereof in a workplace shall be constructed in accordance with the design and drawings of a professional engineer where the work platform is used —
(a) to provide footing for more than 2 persons in each bay; or
(b) to support tools or materials exceeding 25 kgf in each bay.
(3) Subject to regulation 19(8)(b), where a metal scaffold is used in a workplace to support more than 4 persons in any bay, the scaffold shall be constructed in accordance with the design and drawings of a professional engineer.
(4) Duty of a professional engineer who designs any work platform or support referred to in paragraph (2) or any metal scaffold referred to in paragraph (3) to —
(a) take measures to ensure that his design can be executed safely by any person who constructs or uses the work platform, support or metal scaffold according to his design; and
(b) provide to any person who constructs or is to construct the work platform, support or metal scaffold, all design documentation (including all relevant calculations, drawings and construction procedures) as is necessary to facilitate the proper construction of the work platform, support or metal scaffold according to his design.
(5) Duty of the occupier of the workplace to ensure that no work platform or support referred to in paragraph (2) or metal scaffold referred to in paragraph (3) is used unless the design and drawings certified by the professional engineer are kept available at the workplace for
inspection by an inspector.
(6) Any person who contravenes paragraph (5) shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Boards, planks and decking
21.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (4) are complied with.
(2) All boards, planks or decking used in the construction of work platforms in a workplace shall —
(a) be of uniform thickness;
(b) be capable of supporting a load of 670 kgf/sq m with due regard to the spacing of the supports; and
(c) be flushed along their lengths and effectively secured to prevent tipping or uplift.
(3) Any metal decking which forms part of a work platform in a workplace shall be provided with non-skid surfaces.
(4) Any board or plank which forms part of a work platform in a workplace shall project beyond its end support to a distance of not less than 50mm and not more than 4 times the thickness of the board or plank.
Toe-boards and guard-rails
22.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (6) are complied with.
(2) Every side of a work platform or workplace from which a person is liable to fall more than 2m shall be provided with toe-boards and 2 or more guard-rails.
(3) The toe-boards and guard-rails provided under paragraph (2) shall —
(a) be of sound material, good construction and adequate strength to withstand the impact during the course of work;
(b) be placed on the inside of the uprights and secured so as to prevent any accidental displacement; and
(c) be placed so as to prevent the fall of any person or material.
(4) The uppermost guard-rail shall be at least one metre above the work platform or workplace for which the guard-rail is provided.
(5) The height of the toe-boards shall not be less than 90mm.
(6) The vertical distance —
(a) between any 2 adjacent guard-rails; and
(b) between any work platform or workplace and the guard-rail immediately above it,
shall not exceed 600mm
Overlay and screening nets
23.—(1) Subject to paragraph (2), the responsible person to ensure that overlay or screening nets shall be used to envelope any timber or metal scaffold in a workplace which is erected on the outside of a building.
(2) Paragraph (1) shall not apply to a tower scaffold.
Scaffolds to be free of material which endanger safety
24. Occupier of a workplace to remove any material, including waste material or debris, from the scaffold which may endanger the safety of any person.
Measures against electrical hazards
25. It is the duty of —
(a) the employer of any person who uses or is to use any scaffold in a workplace; or
(b) the principal under whose direction any person uses or is to use any scaffold in the workplace,
to ensure that all practicable measures shall be taken to protect the person from electric shock by electrical wires or equipment when using the scaffold.
Inspection of scaffolds
26.—(1) Subject to paragraph (4), duty of the occupier of a workplace to ensure that no scaffold is used unless it has been inspected by a scaffold supervisor —
(a) upon completion of its construction, erection or installation;
(b) thereafter, at intervals of not more than 7 days immediately following the date of the last inspection by the scaffold supervisor; and
(c) after exposure to weather conditions likely to have affected its strength or stability or to have displaced any part.
(2) Scaffold supervisor to —
(a) enter the results of every inspection referred to in paragraph (1) into a register containing such details as may be required by the Commissioner; and
(b) provide the register to the occupier of the workplace.
(3) Subject to paragraph (4), the occupier of the workplace to:
(a) keep the register referred to in paragraph (2) at the workplace; and
(b) produce the register for inspection upon request by an inspector.
(4) This regulation shall not apply to —
(a) a trestle scaffold; or
(b) a scaffold, from no part of which a person is liable to fall more than 2metres.
(5) Any person who contravenes paragraph (3) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Labelling of scaffolds after inspection
27.—(1) Scaffold supervisor who carries out the inspection of a scaffold under regulation 26 to, immediately after such inspection, display a notice or label indicating whether the scaffold is safe for use or otherwise.
(2) The notice or label referred to in paragraph (1) shall —
(a) be in a form readily understood by the persons employed in the workplace; and
(b) be displayed at every designated access point.
(3) Subject to paragraph (4),
the employer of any person who uses or is to use any scaffold or the principal under whose direction any person uses or is to use any scaffold,
to ensure that the person does not use the scaffold unless a notice or label is displayed at the designated access point indicating that the scaffold is safe for use.
(4) Paragraph (3) shall not apply in relation to a person who is —
(a) a scaffold supervisor carrying out any inspection of a scaffold under regulation 26; or
(b) a scaffold erector carrying out the repair of a scaffold under regulation 28.
Construction, erection, maintenance, repair and dismantling of scaffolds
28.—(1) Duty of the occupier of a workplace to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (8) are complied with.
(2) No scaffold or part thereof which is partially constructed, erected, installed or dismantled shall be allowed to be used unless it is made safe.
(3) Where any scaffold referred to in paragraph (2) is unsafe for use, a prominent warning notice or signs in a form readily understood by all persons indicating that the scaffold or part thereof is not to
be used shall be affixed near any point at which the scaffold or part,as the case may be, is liable to be approached for the purpose of use.
(4) Every scaffold shall be properly maintained and every part thereof shall be fixed, secured or placed in position so as to prevent any accidental displacement.
(5) Any scaffold, and any member or component thereof, that has been damaged or weakened shall be repaired as soon as is reasonably practicable.
(6) No person shall be permitted on a scaffold that is damaged or weakened except a scaffold erector who is carrying out the repair of the scaffold.
(7) All reasonably practicable measures shall be taken to ensure the safety of the persons carrying out the repairs referred to in paragraph (6).
(8) Where ties of a scaffold to a permanent structure have to be removed, the portion of the scaffold from which the ties are removed shall be dismantled unless adequate measures are taken to ensure
the stability of the scaffold.
Application
3. These Regulations shall apply to every workplace in which any scaffold is, is being or is to be constructed, erected, installed, used, re-positioned, altered, maintained, repaired or dismantled, whether such work or use of the scaffold commences before, on or after 10th September 2011.
Definition
"responsible person", in relation to any workplace in which a person carries out or is to carry out any work involving the construction, erection, installation, re-positioning, alteration, maintenance, repair or dismantling of a scaffold, means —
(a) his employer; or
(b) the principal under whose direction he carries out or is to carry out any such work;
PART II - GENERAL PROVISIONS
Only approved scaffold contractor to construct, erect, install, re-position, alter, maintain, repair or dismantle certain scaffolds, except for "excluded scaffold"
"excluded scaffold" means—
(a) a tower scaffold;
(b) a trestle scaffold; or
(c) a scaffold (other than a suspended scaffold, hanging scaffold or a scaffold erected on cantilever or jib supports) which, whencompleted and excluding the handrails and their supports at the uppermost lift of the scaffold, is less than 4m in height.
Scaffold erectors
5. Duty of the responsible person to ensure that no person is involved in the construction, erection, installation, re-positioning, alteration, maintenance, repair or dismantling of a scaffold in a workplace unless he has successfully completed a training course acceptable to the Commissioner, to equip him to perform
the work of a scaffold erector.
Scaffold supervisor
6.—(1) Duty of the responsible person to appoint a scaffold supervisor before any construction, erection, installation, re-positioning, alteration, maintenance, repair or dismantling of a scaffold in a workplace.
(2) The responsible person shall not appoint any person as a scaffold supervisor unless the person is one —
(a) who has successfully completed a training course acceptable to the Commissioner, to equip him to be a scaffold supervisor; and
(b) whom the responsible person reasonably believes is competent to perform the functions and duties of a scaffold supervisor.
Personal protective equipment for scaffold erectors
7.—(1)Duty of the responsible person to provide to scaffold erector involved—
(a) a safety harness attached with a shock absorbing device; and
(b) sufficient and secured anchorage by means of an independent life line or other equally effective means.
(2) Duty of the scaffold erector to use the safety harness attached with a shock absorbing device provided to him.
(3) Any person who contravenes paragraph (2) shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $1,000 and, in the case of a second or subsequent conviction, to a fine
not exceeding $2,000.
Supervision of construction, erection, installation, re-positioning, alteration, maintenance, repair or dismantling of scaffolds
8. Duty of the responsible person to ensure that no scaffold is constructed, erected, installed, re-positioned, altered, maintained, repaired or dismantled in a workplace except under the immediate supervision of a scaffold supervisor.
Construction and materials
9.—(1) Duty of the responsible person to ensure that every scaffold, and every member or component thereof, shall be —
(a) of sound material, good construction and adequate strength;
(b) free from patent defects; and
(c) suitable and safe for the purpose for which it is intended.
(2) Duty of the responsible person to ensure that every scaffold erected at a building under construction, so far as is reasonably practicable, be erected such that it precedes the construction of the uppermost permanent floor of the building by not less than one metre above that floor.
(3) Where the height of the scaffold referred to in paragraph (2)extends beyond the uppermost permanent floor by 2 metres or more, the responsible person to ensure that the scaffold is adequately supported to prevent its collapse.
Foundation of scaffolds
10.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (5) are complied with.
(2) Every scaffold shall be constructed, erected or installed on structures or foundations of adequate strength.
(3) Where a scaffold is to be founded on soil, the soil shall be adequately consolidated.
(4) In the case of a scaffold exceeding 15m in height or being erected on poorly drained soil, base plates shall bear upon sole plates that are —
(a) of strength not less than 670 kgf per square metre; and
(b) of a length suitable to distribute the load.
(5) There shall be no cavity under the sole plate immediately below any standard of a scaffold in a workplace.
Scaffolds supported by buildings, ships or other structures
11.—(1) The responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) and (3) are complied with.
(2) No part of a building, ship or other structure shall be used as support for any part of a scaffold in a workplace unless it is sufficiently stable, and of sound material and adequate strength to afford safe support.
(3) Overhanging eaves gutters shall not be used as supports for any part of a scaffold in a workplace unless they have been specially designed as walkways and are of adequate strength.
Designated access point for scaffolds
12.—(1) Duty of the occupier of a workplace to ensure that every scaffold shall have at least one designated access point.
(2) Duty of the occupier of a workplace to ensure that every designated access point is —
(a) clearly marked with a sign or label; and
(b) made safe for use by any person.
Stairs and ladders
13. Duty of the responsible person to ensure that stairs or ladders —
(a) are provided to enable persons to gain access from one level of any scaffold in a workplace to another level; and
(b) so far as is reasonably practicable, are installed within the scaffold.
Standards and ledgers
14.—(1) Duty of the responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (8) are complied with.
(2) The standards of a scaffold in a workplace shall be —
(a) plumb where practicable;
(b) fixed sufficiently close together to secure the stability of the scaffold, having regard to all the circumstances;
(c) in the case of a timber scaffold, spaced not more than 1.5 metres apart; and
(d) in the case of a metal scaffold, subject to paragraph (3), spaced not more than 2.5 metres apart.
(3) No metal scaffold with standards spaced more than 2.5 metres apart shall be constructed or erected in a workplace unless it has been approved in writing by the Commissioner.
(4) Subject to paragraph (5), a standard of a scaffold in a workplace shall be placed on an adequate and secured sole plate in order that the foot of the standard does not rest directly on the ground or supporting surface, so as to prevent any vertical displacement of the foot.
(5) Where the floor or supporting structure is of sufficient rigidity to evenly distribute the load imposed upon it by the standard without causing any vertical displacement of the standard, the provision of a sole plate under the standard shall not be necessary.
(6) The foot of a standard of any frame or modular scaffold in a workplace shall be secured to a base plate so that it does not rest directly on the ground or supporting surface.
(7) The ledgers of a metal scaffold in a workplace shall be spaced at vertical intervals of not more than 2m.
(8) The ledgers of a timber scaffold in a workplace shall —
(a) as far as possible, be horizontal;
(b) be spaced at vertical intervals of not more than 1.8 metres; and
(c) be securely fastened to the standards.
Transoms
15. Responsible person to ensure that transoms are located at or near the intersections of standards and ledgers of a scaffold in a workplace.
Bracing
16.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (8) are complied with.
(2) Every scaffold in a workplace shall be effectively braced by means of longitudinal and transverse bracing systems which shall extend from the base to the top of the scaffold.
(3) The joints in bracing members shall be lapped or spliced.
(4) Longitudinal bracing members shall be continuous and fixed at approximately 45° to the horizontal.
(5) Each lift shall be crossed by at least one longitudinal bracing member in every 10m length of the scaffold.
(6) Subject to paragraph (7), a transverse bracing system shall be provided at each end of the scaffold and at intervals of not more than 10 bays.
(7) A transverse bracing system need not be provided where —
(a) vertical transverse frames are provided for the full height of the scaffold and at each pair of standards; and
(b) the frames are type-tested by a recognised testing body in accordance with a standard or specification acceptable to the Commissioner.
(8) Every frame scaffold in a workplace shall be provided with horizontal bracings or lacings at intervals of not more than every 5 lifts.
Gear for suspension of scaffolds
17.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (4) are complied with.
(2) Every chain, rope and lifting gear used for the suspension of a scaffold in a workplace shall be of sound material, adequate strength and suitable quality, and in good condition.
(3) Any chain, rope and metal tube used for the suspension of a scaffold in a workplace, other than a suspended scaffold, shall be—
(a) properly and securely fastened to safe anchorage points and to the scaffold ledgers or other main supporting members;
(b) positioned so as to ensure stability of the scaffold;
(c) approximately vertical; and
(d) kept taut.
(4) Every scaffold in a workplace that is suspended by means of chains or ropes shall be secured to prevent undue horizontal movement while it is used as a work platform.
Work platforms
18.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (6) are complied with.
(2) Work platforms in a workplace shall be provided —
(a) at any place of work which does not afford a proper and secure foothold; and
(b) in the case of a building under construction, around the edge of the building at every uppermost permanent floor which is under construction.
(3) Notwithstanding paragraph (2) —
(a) work platforms shall be provided at intervals of not less than every alternate lift of any scaffold, except a tower scaffold or a trestle scaffold, used in any premises where building
operations are being carried on; and
(b) unless approval is given in writing by the Commissioner, the vertical distance between any 2 work platforms shall not exceed 4m.
(4) Every work platform provided under paragraph (3) shall cover the lift of a scaffold throughout its entire length.
(5) Every work platform provided under this regulation shall —
(a) be closely boarded, planked or decked;
(b) be at least 500mm wide; and
(c) not have any opening except to allow access to that work platform.
(6) The distance between a work platform and any building, ship or other structure shall be as narrow as is reasonably practicable and shall not exceed 300mm.
Loading requirements for scaffolds
19.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that signboards stating the maximum permissible weight of tools and materials and the maximum number of persons permissible on each bay are prominently displayed at suitable locations on the scaffold in a workplace.
(2) Duty of the occupier of the workplace to ensure that the signboards referred to in paragraph (1) are displayed at all times until the scaffold is dismantled.
(3) The occupier of a workplace to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (4) to (8) are complied with.
(4) Subject to regulation 45, a scaffold in a workplace shall not be overloaded and, so far as is reasonably practicable, the load thereon shall be evenly distributed.
(5) When any material is transferred to or from a scaffold in a workplace, the material shall be moved or deposited without imposing any violent shock.
(6) The maximum loading for persons and materials allowed on any work platform in any bay of a scaffold in a workplace shall be —
(a) in the case of a timber scaffold, 75 kgf /sq m; or
(b) in any other case, 220 kgf /sq m.
(7) The maximum number of persons allowed on any work platform in any bay of a timber or metal scaffold in a workplace shall be —
(a) in the case of a timber scaffold, not more than 2 persons; and
(b) in the case of a metal scaffold, not more than 4 persons.
(8) The maximum number of persons allowed in any bay of a timber or metal scaffold in a workplace shall be —
(a) in the case of a timber scaffold, not more than 4 persons; and
(b) in the case of a metal scaffold, not more than 8 persons.
Design by professional engineer
20.—(1) It shall be the duty of the responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) and (3) are complied with.
(2) Subject to regulation 19(6) and (7), a work platform and any support thereof in a workplace shall be constructed in accordance with the design and drawings of a professional engineer where the work platform is used —
(a) to provide footing for more than 2 persons in each bay; or
(b) to support tools or materials exceeding 25 kgf in each bay.
(3) Subject to regulation 19(8)(b), where a metal scaffold is used in a workplace to support more than 4 persons in any bay, the scaffold shall be constructed in accordance with the design and drawings of a professional engineer.
(4) Duty of a professional engineer who designs any work platform or support referred to in paragraph (2) or any metal scaffold referred to in paragraph (3) to —
(a) take measures to ensure that his design can be executed safely by any person who constructs or uses the work platform, support or metal scaffold according to his design; and
(b) provide to any person who constructs or is to construct the work platform, support or metal scaffold, all design documentation (including all relevant calculations, drawings and construction procedures) as is necessary to facilitate the proper construction of the work platform, support or metal scaffold according to his design.
(5) Duty of the occupier of the workplace to ensure that no work platform or support referred to in paragraph (2) or metal scaffold referred to in paragraph (3) is used unless the design and drawings certified by the professional engineer are kept available at the workplace for
inspection by an inspector.
(6) Any person who contravenes paragraph (5) shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Boards, planks and decking
21.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (4) are complied with.
(2) All boards, planks or decking used in the construction of work platforms in a workplace shall —
(a) be of uniform thickness;
(b) be capable of supporting a load of 670 kgf/sq m with due regard to the spacing of the supports; and
(c) be flushed along their lengths and effectively secured to prevent tipping or uplift.
(3) Any metal decking which forms part of a work platform in a workplace shall be provided with non-skid surfaces.
(4) Any board or plank which forms part of a work platform in a workplace shall project beyond its end support to a distance of not less than 50mm and not more than 4 times the thickness of the board or plank.
Toe-boards and guard-rails
22.—(1) Responsible person to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (6) are complied with.
(2) Every side of a work platform or workplace from which a person is liable to fall more than 2m shall be provided with toe-boards and 2 or more guard-rails.
(3) The toe-boards and guard-rails provided under paragraph (2) shall —
(a) be of sound material, good construction and adequate strength to withstand the impact during the course of work;
(b) be placed on the inside of the uprights and secured so as to prevent any accidental displacement; and
(c) be placed so as to prevent the fall of any person or material.
(4) The uppermost guard-rail shall be at least one metre above the work platform or workplace for which the guard-rail is provided.
(5) The height of the toe-boards shall not be less than 90mm.
(6) The vertical distance —
(a) between any 2 adjacent guard-rails; and
(b) between any work platform or workplace and the guard-rail immediately above it,
shall not exceed 600mm
Overlay and screening nets
23.—(1) Subject to paragraph (2), the responsible person to ensure that overlay or screening nets shall be used to envelope any timber or metal scaffold in a workplace which is erected on the outside of a building.
(2) Paragraph (1) shall not apply to a tower scaffold.
Scaffolds to be free of material which endanger safety
24. Occupier of a workplace to remove any material, including waste material or debris, from the scaffold which may endanger the safety of any person.
Measures against electrical hazards
25. It is the duty of —
(a) the employer of any person who uses or is to use any scaffold in a workplace; or
(b) the principal under whose direction any person uses or is to use any scaffold in the workplace,
to ensure that all practicable measures shall be taken to protect the person from electric shock by electrical wires or equipment when using the scaffold.
Inspection of scaffolds
26.—(1) Subject to paragraph (4), duty of the occupier of a workplace to ensure that no scaffold is used unless it has been inspected by a scaffold supervisor —
(a) upon completion of its construction, erection or installation;
(b) thereafter, at intervals of not more than 7 days immediately following the date of the last inspection by the scaffold supervisor; and
(c) after exposure to weather conditions likely to have affected its strength or stability or to have displaced any part.
(2) Scaffold supervisor to —
(a) enter the results of every inspection referred to in paragraph (1) into a register containing such details as may be required by the Commissioner; and
(b) provide the register to the occupier of the workplace.
(3) Subject to paragraph (4), the occupier of the workplace to:
(a) keep the register referred to in paragraph (2) at the workplace; and
(b) produce the register for inspection upon request by an inspector.
(4) This regulation shall not apply to —
(a) a trestle scaffold; or
(b) a scaffold, from no part of which a person is liable to fall more than 2metres.
(5) Any person who contravenes paragraph (3) shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $2,000.
Labelling of scaffolds after inspection
27.—(1) Scaffold supervisor who carries out the inspection of a scaffold under regulation 26 to, immediately after such inspection, display a notice or label indicating whether the scaffold is safe for use or otherwise.
(2) The notice or label referred to in paragraph (1) shall —
(a) be in a form readily understood by the persons employed in the workplace; and
(b) be displayed at every designated access point.
(3) Subject to paragraph (4),
the employer of any person who uses or is to use any scaffold or the principal under whose direction any person uses or is to use any scaffold,
to ensure that the person does not use the scaffold unless a notice or label is displayed at the designated access point indicating that the scaffold is safe for use.
(4) Paragraph (3) shall not apply in relation to a person who is —
(a) a scaffold supervisor carrying out any inspection of a scaffold under regulation 26; or
(b) a scaffold erector carrying out the repair of a scaffold under regulation 28.
Construction, erection, maintenance, repair and dismantling of scaffolds
28.—(1) Duty of the occupier of a workplace to ensure that the requirements of paragraphs (2) to (8) are complied with.
(2) No scaffold or part thereof which is partially constructed, erected, installed or dismantled shall be allowed to be used unless it is made safe.
(3) Where any scaffold referred to in paragraph (2) is unsafe for use, a prominent warning notice or signs in a form readily understood by all persons indicating that the scaffold or part thereof is not to
be used shall be affixed near any point at which the scaffold or part,as the case may be, is liable to be approached for the purpose of use.
(4) Every scaffold shall be properly maintained and every part thereof shall be fixed, secured or placed in position so as to prevent any accidental displacement.
(5) Any scaffold, and any member or component thereof, that has been damaged or weakened shall be repaired as soon as is reasonably practicable.
(6) No person shall be permitted on a scaffold that is damaged or weakened except a scaffold erector who is carrying out the repair of the scaffold.
(7) All reasonably practicable measures shall be taken to ensure the safety of the persons carrying out the repairs referred to in paragraph (6).
(8) Where ties of a scaffold to a permanent structure have to be removed, the portion of the scaffold from which the ties are removed shall be dismantled unless adequate measures are taken to ensure
the stability of the scaffold.
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