Worker electrocuted during dismantling works

On 15 October 2020, a worker was dismantling an electrical distribution board within a vacated building when he was electrocuted. He was sent to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. 

Employers and contractors performing similar work activities are advised to implement suitable risk controls to protect their workers. Deploy only authorised, trained and competent personnel such as licensed electrical worker to perform or supervise all electrical work including dismantling works. Risk assessment must be carried out and Safe Work Procedures established prior to starting work. For electrical equipment, it is important to isolate and lock out the electrical power source and de-energise the equipment before carrying out dismantling work. Tools used should come with non-conductive handles. As an additional precaution, such workers should also be equipped with the necessary Personal Protective Equipment such as electrical work gloves and rubber-soled footwear.

Source: WSHC

Worker fell from ladder

On 30 October 2020, a worker was at a private dwelling working under a roofing structure when he fell from an A-frame ladder. He was found lying on the floor in a semi-conscious state next to the ladder. The worker was conveyed to the hospital where he succumbed to his injuries on 4 November 2020.   The Ministry of Manpower has commenced investigations into the accident.   Employers and principals are reminded to conduct a comprehensive Risk Assessment (RA) for all work activities requiring the use of ladders. Only use ladders that are of good construction, sound material, adequate strength and free from defect. Select the most suitable ladder for the work activity by making sure that the ladder is of sufficient height for the worker to access the designated work area without having to stand on its top rung. Workers must be trained on the safe use of ladders such as maintaining three points of contact at all times and the importance of setting up ladders on firm, level and stable ground.     Information on the accident is based on preliminary investigations by the Ministry of Manpower as at 10 Nov 2020. This may be subject to change as investigations are still on-going. Please note that the recommendations provided here are not exhaustive and they are meant to enhance workplace safety and health so that a recurrence may be prevented. The information and recommendations provided are not to be construed as implying any liability on any party nor should it be taken to encapsulate all the responsibilities and obligations under the law.

Source: WSHC