Worker dies at Tuas shipyard; MOM investigating incident

He was removed from the pipe and pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

The man had worked for Hwa Leong Offshore Engineering, said MOM.

The ministry added that as a general safety measure, all confined spaces must be clearly identified and labelled.

“Before any work begins, relevant risk-control measures, including atmospheric testing, adequate ventilation and application of permit-to-work, must be implemented to address and mitigate any foreseeable hazards associated with the confined spaces,” said MOM.

It is unclear how and why the worker entered the pipe.

When contacted, Seatrium told ST that it is aware of the incident at the shipyard involving a subcontractor. The company added that it is investigating the incident.

“We are extending the fullest support to the victim’s family and co-workers. The safety and well-being of everyone on our premises are of paramount importance to us,” Seatrium said.

There were 36 workplace deaths in Singapore in 2025, a decrease from the 43 deaths in 2024.

The workplace death rate in 2025 was 0.96 per 100,000 workers, the lowest since 2020.

ST has contacted Hwa Leong Offshore Engineering for more information.