LTA pushes for 'Zero Accident' at construction worksites

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) launched a safety campaign on Tuesday to bring the number of construction worksite accidents down to zero.

The "Zero Accident" movement will see the LTA tighten safety processes for contractors and increase surprise checks, among other measures. For instance, tenders for new rail or road projects, starting with the Thomson Line, will have additional requirements with regard to safety specifications.

As part of this renewed focus on safety, the LTA has upgraded its safety, health and environmental standards, starting with all its new rail and road projects. Contractors will have to implement a safety programme to correct workers' behaviour and cultivate a strong safety culture in their firms.

An existing Safety Performance Scheme for civil contracts in excess of $40 million will be enhanced. Contractors must meet higher safety standards to receive a bonus payout. They risk getting paid less if they perform poorly in terms of safety.