There were 15 deaths in the construction industry in first half of 2010. At this rate, fatalities by year end may equal that of last year. This would setback our efforts to protect workers’ lives and improve the industry’s safety record.
A significant percentage of the deaths and injuries related to falling from heights and improper operation of cranes, which could have been prevented if all parties involved, including employers and workers, put safety as a priority.
A safe construction industry is good for both workers and industry. Deaths and injuries hurt families and slow work down. This is not what we want and is also unnecessary. We must educate, enable and enforce even more.
Since 2009, the Building Construction and Timber Industries Employees’ Union (BATU) has partnered 12 unionised companies to train their workers under the Certificate in Workplace Safety and Health programme conducted by NTUC LearningHub. This will help strengthen the companies' and workers’ capability to be and stay safe. We will press on with such efforts so that workers can go to work and return home safely.
Heng Chee How
Executive Secretary
Building Construction and Timber Industries Employees’ Union
