21 workplace deaths in first half of 2026; four involved platform workers
The number of major injuries decreased with 314 across all industries, down from 335 in the first half of 2025.
In the first half of 2026, 21 workplace deaths occurred in Singapore, with four of those fatalities involving platform workers. The rise in platform-related deaths is attributed to fatalities on the roads, marking platform work as the second-highest industry with the most deaths, tied with construction. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) released mid-year Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) statistics on September 8, showing a slight increase in the workplace fatality rate to 1.1 deaths per 100,000 workers, up from 0.97 in the same period in 2025.
Vehicular incidents were the leading cause, claiming nine lives. Other top causes included drowning or suffocation, leading to five deaths, including three crew members in a supply boat collision. The transportation and storage industry had the highest number of deaths, at five fatalities. MOM has introduced enhanced penalties and a two-week safety time-out, and is reviewing further measures, including tougher deterrence and a review of the bizSAFE programme.
Platform workers, including delivery riders, faced significantly higher risks, with an annualized death and injury rate of 92.1 per 100,000 workers. A new safety program, the Advanced Riding Development Programme: Urban Rider Safety Course, was launched in August to address the specific demands of platform work.
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