Singapore: 7 of 21 work deaths in H1 2026 were work-related traffic accidents
Statistics · Singapore MOM
In a written parliamentary answer on 6 October 2026, Singapore's Ministry of Manpower said it did not declare a Heightened Safety Period despite 21 work deaths in H1 2026, because incidents spanned industries without a shared systemic cause and seven were work-related traffic accidents. The measure was introduced in 2022 when the fatality rate reached 1.5 per 100,000 workers.
In a written answer to a parliamentary question on 6 October 2026, Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM) explained why it did not declare a Heightened Safety Period despite 21 workplace deaths in the first half of 2026.
The ministry's reasoning
- The measure was introduced in September 2022, when the annualised fatality rate reached 1.5 per 100,000 workers.
- This year's incidents occurred across different industries without underlying systemic causes.
- "Seven out of the 21 fatalities in the first half of 2026 were due to work-related traffic accidents rather than workplace safety lapses."
Measures already taken
In June the multi-agency workplace safety taskforce (MAST) introduced enhanced penalties, a two-week nationwide voluntary Safety Time-Out and a joint advisory on work-related traffic safety.
Lesson for contractors: driving for work is an occupational risk and belongs in risk assessments and HSE plans.
Further material and files
Based on: Singapore Ministry of Manpower