SINGAPORE, July 14 — The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has ordered a contractor to suspend all manhole‑cover replacement works after two of its employees were injured in a flash fire at a sewer manhole in Tuas last week, according to information from the page .
According to The Straits Times, the incident occurred on the morning of July 10, when workers from Hong Hock Global were hacking cement around a manhole near the junction of Jalan Buroh and Pioneer Road.
A sudden fire erupted from within the sewer manhole, leaving both men with burn injuries. They were taken to Singapore General Hospital; one has since been discharged while the other remains warded for observation.
MOM said the company must halt similar works until investigations determine the cause of the fire and safety measures are strengthened. The ministry has directed Hong Hock Global to review its risk assessments and reinforce safety protocols before resuming operations.
Underground infrastructure such as sewerage and waste pipes can produce flammable gases, MOM noted, adding that employers must conduct comprehensive risk assessments and implement appropriate controls to protect workers from fire and explosion hazards. Workers should also be properly briefed on hazards, safe‑work procedures and supervised adequately.
MOM’s investigation into the incident is ongoing.
