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SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said on Friday (November 13) that it had discovered about 140 workplace safety and health (WSH) violations at waste recycling companies during an enforcement operation.
Dubbed Ops Bowerbird, the targeted operation was launched last month with the support of the Singapore Civil Defense Force. More than 30 companies were inspected during the operation.
Unsafe wiring can cause electrocution and lead to fire or explosion. (Photo: Ministry of Manpower)
“Our inspectors discovered nearly 140 violations that posed fire and explosion hazards, such as mishandling containers containing flammable / toxic waste gases and obstruction of fire safety measures,” the ministry said in a statement on Facebook.
“Additionally, our inspectors also discovered violations such as unsafe stacking, unsafe electrical wiring, poor forklift conditions, unsafe machine protection, and poor cleaning.”
Bald forklift tires can cause accidents. (Photo: Ministry of Manpower)
MOM said some companies were found to be implementing WSH good practices – some were refusing to accept materials they couldn’t safely handle, like cans, LPG cylinders, and compressors, for example.
A hole drilled in a LPG cylinder to depressurize the waste gas. Drilling of LPG cylinders can cause sparks that can cause fires or explosions. (Photo: Ministry of Manpower)
“All employers must conduct risk assessments, identify the materials that their companies are equipped to handle, and comply with safe work procedures,” said MOM. “We will continue to inspect these workplaces to increase the focus on WSH, even in the midst of COVID-19.”
MOM and the WSH Council will work with industry leaders to issue an advisory on safe recycling work next month.
Unsafe storage and stacking of objects poses a risk of collapse for workers. (Photo: Ministry of Manpower)
MOM added: “With the end of the year holidays approaching, companies may be increasing their work activities to meet deadlines due to a previous work suspension.
“Last year, in November and December alone, there were a series of accidents that unfortunately resulted in the death of 11 workers.
“MOM wishes to remind all companies to remain vigilant and ensure that the necessary safeguards are in place to protect workers.”
