How did Stargroup fail to minimise workplace risks?

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Stargroup Failed to Implement Reasonably Practicable Measures to Minimise Workplace Risks Leading to Fatal Incident

Stargroup has been charged for failing to implement reasonably practicable measures to minimise workplace risks, a lapse that led to the deaths of two workers due to toxic gas exposure. The incident occurred on May 23, 2024, during routine tank cleaning operations at Choa Chu Kang Waterworks, where workers entered a confined space and were exposed to hydrogen sulphide gas. Investigations revealed that sensors at the site had already recorded levels of this toxic gas exceeding safe thresholds and had triggered an alarm prior to the workers entering the passage.
Exposure to Hydrogen Sulphide Gas in Confined Space

The fatal incident involved four workers from Stargroup and its subcontractor who were engaged in cleaning a water treatment process tank. Three of these workers collapsed after entering an enclosed passage beneath the tank to perform their duties, specifically to close hand valves. Subsequent investigations by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) concluded that the workers were exposed to hydrogen sulphide gas, a substance known to be fatal even at low concentrations.
Pre-existing Alarms and Exceeded Thresholds

Crucially, at the time of the incident, sensors located at the Choa Chu Kang Waterworks had already registered hydrogen sulphide levels that surpassed established safe thresholds. Furthermore, an audible alarm had been activated at the location, indicating a hazardous environment. Despite these warnings, the workers proceeded with their task within the confined space, suggesting a failure in the risk management protocols.
Managerial Oversight and Permit Issuance Lapses

Beyond the company's overall responsibility, the authorised manager for confined space entry permits at Stargroup, Lim Beng Hock, has also been charged. He is accused of allegedly failing to exercise due diligence in the process of issuing the necessary permits for the tank cleaning operation. This points to a potential breakdown in managerial oversight concerning safety procedures for confined space entries.
PUB's Response and Blacklisting

In response to the safety lapses, PUB, Singapore's national water agency, has taken significant action against Stargroup. The company has been blacklisted for a period of 18 months, commencing from August 2024. This measure prevents Stargroup from participating in any future tenders for PUB projects during this duration, reflecting the severity with which PUB views the contractor's safety failures.

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How did Stargroup fail to minimise workplace risks?

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