In a heartbreaking incident on the afternoon of October 22, 2023, a 36-year-old Bangladeshi construction worker met with a tragic end.
He fell 10 meters through a skylight while working on the installation of solar panels on the rooftop of a workshop at a construction site in Tuas, according to The Straits Times.
A photo of the aftermath was shared on the Complaint Singapore Unrestricted Facebook page, showing two paramedics attending to the man, as the other workers stood aside.
What also appears to be (presumably) his brain or organs could be seen on the floor beside his head. (Or it could just be a blood soaked cloth or bandage).
MOM’s Response
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) confirmed the incident and said that it happened on Sunday at 12 Tuas South Street 2, at about 2pm.
The worker was rushed to the National University Hospital, where he died from his injuries later that day.
The spokesperson also disclosed that the worksite’s occupier is Energetix Pte. Ltd., while the employer of the deceased worker is BBG Electrical Engineering Pte. Ltd.
MOM has acted swiftly in the wake of this tragedy, instructing the occupier to cease all work-at-height activities at the site and initiating a thorough investigation into the incident.
This incident brings the number of reported deaths in the workplace this year to 21.
Migrant Workers’ Centre’s statement
MWC is aware of the tragic accident that resulted in the loss of a 36-year-old Bangladeshi national at his workplace and MWC understands that the cause of incident is still under investigation.
We have established contact with the deceased worker’s employer to gather all relevant information pertaining to this unfortunate incident, while offering guidance and support on filing of incident report to make claims under the Work Injury Compensation Act (WICA). We understand that the employer has arranged for the repatriation of the worker’s remains to his family in Bangladesh.
Our primary focus now is to ensure that the immediate needs of the affected worker’s family are met. To provide interim financial assistance to the next-of-kin (NOK) as they await compensation through WICA, we will extend an ex-gratia payout from the Migrant Workers’ Assistance Fund (MWAF). We are also ready to assess and address any urgent needs and assistance required. We recognise the significant impact such incidents can have on the livelihoods of the families involved, and we remain dedicated to providing a helping hand during times of crisis.
In addition to supporting the affected worker’s family, MWC acknowledges the emotional toll this incident may have on other workers who were present at the scene. As such, we will offer counselling services to these workers through our partner organisations when the need arises. Our goal is to ensure that no worker is left alone in the aftermath of such distressing incidents, and we are committed to providing comprehensive assistance.
MWC remains steadfast in our commitment to safeguarding the welfare and rights of all migrant workers in Singapore. We will work closely with relevant authorities, employers, and other stakeholders to prevent workplace incidents and enhance safety measures across various industries. Every worker deserves a safe working environment, and we will continue to advocate for robust safety standards and strict enforcement. We will continue to engage with employers, educate workers about their rights, and collaborate with all stakeholders to create a safer working environment for all. At NTUC, we are advocating that reporting workplace safety issues is a basic right for workers and employers must not retaliate against these reporting for a good cause. We urge all workers to report any unsafe conditions and notify appropriate personnel and the union. NTUC and its affiliated unions stand ready to assist on any matters should there be any inaction on resolving these issues of non-compliance.
Migrant workers who require assistance can contact MWC via our 24-hour helpline at 6536 2692.
Image source: Complaint Singapore Unrestricted (Warning: Graphic images, viewer discretion is advised)