Singapore to shorten timber scaffold use from 9 months to 3 to improve fire safety

MOM said the new shorter duration of use also addresses safety concerns about the deterioration of timber over time, such as through exposure to weather, wear and tear, and mechanical damage.

“Shortening the permissible duration promotes regular renewal and replacement of scaffold materials, reduces the likelihood of undetected defects, and encourages the adoption of more durable, non-combustible scaffold systems such as steel, aluminium and metal modular scaffold systems,” it said.

Timber scaffolds set up before Jan 1, 2027 can still be used for up to nine months. Come 2027, extension of use beyond three months may be granted on a case-by-case basis, such as where there are technical constraints.

Dr Tan said MOM and the Singapore Civil Defence Force are also studying new requirements for scaffold netting installed outside buildings to be fire retardant.

This will limit the spread of flames in the event of a fire, he said, adding that more details will be shared at a later date.

MOM said obligations could be placed on scaffold contractors and netting manufacturers and suppliers to ensure that scaffold netting meets the new requirements.