The nation will limit the use of timber scaffolds to three months from Jan 1, 2027, down from the current nine months, as part of efforts to reduce fire risks, Manpower Minister Tan See Leng said.
The government is also studying new requirements for scaffold nettings installed outside buildings to be fire-retardant, Tan said at a workplace safety and health event on Thursday.
“Scaffold fires, especially those involving combustible materials such as timber, can spread rapidly, complicate evacuation and firefighting efforts, as well as result in significant damage, disruption and potential loss of lives,” the Manpower Ministry said in a statement issued after the event.
The ministry said shortening the maximum permitted duration for timber scaffolds would also address safety risks arising from the deterioration of timber over time due to weather exposure, wear and tear, and mechanical damage.
It added that the change would encourage the adoption of more durable, non-combustible scaffold systems, including steel, aluminium and modular metal scaffolds. Timber scaffolds erected before Jan 1, 2027, may continue to be used for up to nine months under the existing rules. — Xinhua
