The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is pushing for more skilled workers to be employed in the construction sector to reduce hazards and risks at work.
This is currently implemented at its latest Thomson-East Coast line projects, where contractors are required to employ 15 per cent of highly-skilled craftsmen for reinforced concrete work.
“LTA strongly believes in employing more skilled workers into the construction industry to meet its current challenges,” said LTA chairman Michael Lim at the 17th LTA Annual Safety Award Convention on Tuesday (Sep 15).
“This is because the value of a skilled worker lies not only in his productivity, but also in his ability to appreciate the risks and hazards associated with the works,” he added. Mr Lim said LTA has also pledged to reduce its Accident Frequency and Severity Rates by 10 per cent each year for the next five years.
A total of 16 new safety initiatives under three areas of improvement will also be adopted. They are to enhance the mindset and commitment to safety, to introduce more innovative designs and cutting-edge technologies to reduce manual labour, and to raise the competency of the workforce.
At the event, 23 contractors were honoured for their exemplary Workplace Safety and Health practices in the past year. For the first time, two contractors – GS Engineering and Construction and KTC Civil Engineering and Construction – were presented the top award, the LTA Contractors Challenge Shield.
They had been awarded contracts for stations that are part of the Downtown Line 3 project.
A new individual award – the WSH Officer Recognition Award – was also presented for the first time to Mr Andy Tan of Shanghai Tunnel Engineering.
news source & image credits: channelnewsasia.com
