 said today (19 Jan) that a 59 year old worker has passed away following an accident){kind=link}
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said today (19 Jan) that a 59 year old worker has passed away following an accident which occurred at his workplace last month.
The incident happened on 24 December 2021, at 1024 Yishun Industrial Park A.
At the time of the incident, the company which was occupying the premises and also the man’s employer is Sin Kwang Wah, a bag and luggage wholesaler.
Cause
The man was climbing down from the ladder which was leaning on the edge of a mezzanine floor when it slipped.
It resulted in the man falling and hitting his head on the floor.
He was rushed to Khoo Teck Puat hospital where he eventually succumbed to his injuries three days later.
The height which the man had fell was said to be around 1.7metres, according to Workplace Safety and Health Council (WSHC).
MOM investigating
MOM has instructed the employer to prohibit access to the mezzanine floor for the time being, while it investigates the case.
This case brings the workplace fatalities count in 2021 to 37.
Till date in 2022, no accidents are yet to be reported.
WSHC advisory
WSHC has warned against using the A-frame ladder as a leaning ladder.
It added that if there is a need to use the A-frame ladder, the user should ensure that the ladder is on a stable and flat ground, fully opened with its spreaders locked.
For work at higher levels, the usage of a step platform or platform ladder is highly recommended.
Workers should also protect themselves by donning a safety helmet.
When using leaning ladders to access another level, it should be tied and extended at least 1 metre above the landing point so as to get a secure handhold.
The base should also be secured with guard railings on the level that is going to be accessed so that falls can be prevented.
Editor’s notes: Photos used are for illustration purposes only
Image source: Google Maps, unsplash.com