Six fatal work accidents this December 2012: MOM

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http://news.xin.msn.com/en/singapore/four-fatal-work-accidents-in-past-week-mom#scpshrtu

Six workers have died in nine workplace accidents this December, with four of the fatal accidents occurring in the past week, said the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) on Thursday.

The accidents, which involve both Singaporean and foreign workers, are mostly industrial in nature or caused when workers move heavy objects.

MOM has urged companies to proactively carry out thorough risk assessments and enforce safety measures to ensure the safety and health of their workers.

Under the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Act, all stakeholders — including employers and employees — are required to take reasonably practicable measures to ensure the safety and health of workers and other related parties.

Failure to do so is an offence under the law, said MOM.

Two employers were prosecuted this month for two separate accidents that occurred in February 2010.

Individuals found guilty of offences under the WSH Act can be fined up to S$200,000 or imprisoned up to two years or both for the first offence. Companies can be fined up to $500,000.

Workers who fail to comply with safety measures may be fined up to S$1,000.