What are the main causes of fallen casement windows in HDB flats?

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The primary causes of fallen casement windows in HDB flats are the corrosion and weakening of aluminium rivets.

The corrosion and subsequent weakening of aluminium rivets are the principal factors leading to casement windows falling from Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats. These compromised rivets lose their integrity, rendering them incapable of securely holding the glass panels in place. In the first 11 months of 2023, Singapore recorded 35 cases of fallen windows from public housing blocks, with 19 of these specifically involving casement windows.
Corrosion of Aluminium Rivets Weakens Window Integrity

Investigations by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) have identified the deterioration of aluminium rivets as the main culprit behind fallen casement windows. Over time, exposure to environmental factors can cause these rivets to corrode, significantly reducing their strength and ability to maintain a firm grip on the window's glass panels. This structural weakening eventually leads to the panels becoming dislodged.
Mandatory Replacement of Aluminium Rivets

Recognizing this vulnerability, the BCA has mandated since 2004 that all homeowners replace aluminium rivets in their casement windows with stainless steel ones. This regulatory measure aims to prevent future incidents by upgrading the window components to more durable materials that are resistant to corrosion. Failure to comply with this directive can result in substantial fines and even imprisonment for homeowners.
Lack of Safety Features in Sliding Windows

While the question specifically pertains to casement windows, it is worth noting that the BCA also identified issues with sliding windows. For these types, the primary causes of detachment were found to be a lack of proper safety stoppers and angle strips. These components are crucial for keeping window panels within their tracks, and their absence can lead to dislodgement, particularly when excessive outward force is applied during operation.

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What are the main causes of fallen casement windows in HDB flats?

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