A serious incident occurred at Pasir Panjang Terminal 3 in Singapore on 25 November 2024, when a stack of shipping containers fell on a forklift, injuring the operator. The situation highlights the importance of strict safety measures in a workplace that deals with heavy machinery and cargo.
Details of the Incident
According to PSA Singapore, the incident transpired around 6.40am. The injured worker, a 37-year-old Malaysian man, was operating the forklift at the time when the stack of containers collapsed. Alerted shortly after, the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) arrived on the scene at approximately 6.55am and promptly transported the man to the National University Hospital.
Injuries Sustained
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) reported that the operator sustained lacerations to his head and body after tumbling from the cabin of the forklift. Fortunately, he was conscious during transport and is currently in stable condition.
Investigation and Safety Measures
- MOM has commenced an investigation into the incident.
- PSA has been instructed to halt all empty container-handling activities at the terminal.
- A safety time-out for operations has been mandated by authorities.
PSA issued a statement ensuring support for the injured employee during this challenging time. They emphasised the necessity of adhering to safety protocols—specifically, containers must be stacked according to established guidelines to prevent similar occurrences.
Visual Documentation
Footage of the incident circulating on social media captures the moment the forklift operator lifted one container, only for a subsequent stack of five to topple. As the forklift reversed, the top container fell, crushing the cabin and leading to the operator’s fall.
This incident serves as a stern reminder of the perils involved in container operations, reinforcing the ongoing call for impeccable safety practices in all industrial environments.