Tragic Fall of an 82-Year-Old Construction Worker: A Cautionary Tale of Workplace Safety
The recent coroner’s inquiry into the death of 82-year-old self-employed construction worker Chia Ngan Chai has shed light on the tragic circumstances surrounding his fatal fall at a worksite in MacPherson. Chia, who had spent 60 years in the construction industry, died on May 2, 2023, after suffering a head injury during a fall while building a low concrete wall.
The investigation found that Chia’s death was an “unfortunate accident” with no foul play suspected. However, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of workplace safety and the need for vigilance, even among experienced workers.
According to The Straits Times, Chia’s fall occurred at around 3:50 pm, shortly after he had finished building the wall with another worker. Despite a safety briefing conducted before the work began, Chia’s fall was not witnessed by anyone, and the exact circumstances remain unclear. The coroner’s report noted that Chia’s head injuries were consistent with those sustained in a fall, but it could not be proven whether his medication for obsessive-compulsive disorder or undiagnosed cardiovascular disease contributed to the fall.
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) investigation found that it was unlikely that work fatigue caused Chia’s fall, as he had not worked on the two preceding days and was working in a shaded area on the day of the incident. However, the incident highlights the need for workers, especially those in high-risk industries like construction, to prioritize their health and safety.
Chia’s case is a sobering reminder that even experienced workers can fall victim to accidents. His death serves as a cautionary tale for workers, employers, and contractors to ensure that workplace safety and health measures are in place and strictly adhered to. The coroner’s report noted that apart from an unsecured safety helmet, there was no evidence of a breach of workplace safety and health measures that contributed to Chia’s fall.
As the construction industry continues to grow and evolve, it is essential that workers, employers, and contractors prioritize safety and health above all else. This includes ensuring that workers are properly trained, equipped, and supervised, and that regular safety briefings and risk assessments are conducted.
Chia’s tragic fall is a reminder that workplace safety is a collective responsibility, and that every individual has a role to play in preventing accidents and ensuring a safe working environment. As we mourn the loss of this experienced construction worker, we must also learn from his tragic accident and strive to create a safer and healthier workplace for all.