Efforts to reduce workplace fatalities not good enough: Swee Say

SINGAPORE — More needs to be done to reduce workplace fatalities, Manpower Minister Lim Swee Say said yesterday at the launch of the National Workplace Safety and Health Campaign.

Mr Lim pointed out that 26 workers have died this year, eight more compared to the same period in 2015, which represents an increase of 40 per cent.

This is proof, he said, that efforts to reduce workplace fatalities are “not good enough”.

“Every death is one too many because a death at work means the loss of a loved one at home,” said Mr Lim.

“A chemist died in a lab explosion last October. Her six-month-old daughter will have to grow up without the care and love of her mother. This should not have happened.”

He added: “Two young SMRT staff lost their lives last month while undergoing on-the-job training. Their future was taken away from them. Their premature departure has brought much grief to their families, colleagues and friends. Again, this should not have happened.

“What is even more alarming is that the situation did not improve since then.

“Eight more lives were lost in the last three weeks. We really have to improve. We must do better.”

Mr Lim said fear of prosecution and enforcement should not be the main driving force towards a vision of zero fatalities.

Instead, employers should look at preventing injuries as a responsible way of running a business.

He also called on workers to do their part to stay safe at work.

Mr Lim outlined three looming challenges in job safety and health: Chronic diseases associated with an ageing population; occupational diseases; and risks brought about by new technology adopted in the workplace. CHANNEL NEWSASIA