Singapore pushes safety timeout until Jan 27 after fatal workplace accidents ahead of CNY rush

In an advisory issued by the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Council and highlighted by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), employers were asked to conduct a voluntary “Safety Time-Out” between January 13 and January 27, 2026. 

The initiative aims to encourage firms to strengthen safety procedures, reinforce control measures, and address potential safety lapses—particularly involving vehicular operations. 

The call follows a series of tragic incidents last month. On December 31, a worker operating a scissor lift reportedly struck his back against the top of a doorway while reversing the platform. He soon lost consciousness and died at the scene despite efforts from co-workers to help him. 

Earlier that month, on December 11, a delivery worker was pinned under his van after it rolled backwards down a slight slope; he later died in hospital. 

Another fatality occurred on December 15 when a stack of plywood sheets toppled during forklift operations, pinning a worker. Investigations later revealed the load had been positioned off-centre and was not secured. 

In a fourth case, a lorry collision resulted in a worker’s death. The incidents underline what authorities say is a worrying lapse in vehicular safety awareness. 

MOM said the Safety Time-Out is meant to give organisations space to “review and strengthen safety procedures… and reaffirm management commitment to protecting lives”.

Beyond awareness, employers are encouraged to invest in proven safety technologies through initiatives such as the Lorry Crane Stability Control System Grant and the Productivity Solutions Grant. 

The WSH Council has called on companies to reassess their safety management systems, ensuring vehicles and industrial mobile equipment are properly maintained, operated by trained personnel, and used within clear safety guidelines. Firms were reminded to carry out pre-operation checks, enforce safe work procedures, secure loads properly, and ensure drivers and nearby workers maintain safe positions at all times. 

Particular emphasis was placed on preventing unintended vehicle movement, especially on slopes, and mitigating collision risks involving scissor lifts and other mobile elevated platforms. 

With festive season workloads expected to intensify, authorities warn that complacency is not an option. “Together, we can ensure our workers and businesses can thrive safely,” MOM said, urging companies to prioritise vigilance and reinforce a culture of safety. More details and safety advisories are available on the WSH Council’s website.