Part 5/11:

They attribute the surge to reduced manpower post-pandemic and the rush to meet project deadlines. Many workers are subjected to longer hours—sometimes up to 15 hours a day—despite laws limiting work to 12 hours. Their basic salaries are low, roughly S$18 to S$25 per day, incentivizing workers to extend overtime, often illegally, to supplement their income.

Furthermore, safety training is inadequate. While workers undergo mandatory orientation on the basics, they are rarely taught how to respond to emergencies, such as rescuing a fallen colleague. Employers tend to focus more on project milestones than on safety culture, which fosters risky behaviors.