Update on Scaffold Fire Safety Requirements

1.           Scaffold fires present a serious safety risk to workers, emergency responders and members of the public. The use of scaffold systems is prevalent across the construction sector, and scaffold fires, especially those involving combustible materials such as timber, can spread rapidly, complicate evacuation and firefighting efforts, as well as result in significant damage, disruption and potential loss of lives. Taking into account industry feedback and international developments, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) is introducing measures to strengthen fire safety requirements associated with the use of scaffolds.

Reducing the Permissible Duration for the Use of Timber Scaffolds

2.           Timber scaffolds are combustible and can accelerate the spread of fire when ignited. To mitigate fire risks arising from the prolonged presence of combustible timber materials, particularly in environments involving hot works, MOM will reduce the permissible duration for the use of timber scaffolds from the current 9 months to 3 months, with effect from 1 January 2027. The effective date of 1 January 2027 is to provide industry stakeholders with sufficient time to prepare for the new requirements, adapt their practices and processes and secure the necessary materials and resources.

3.           The reduction in the permissible duration also addresses safety concerns associated with the deterioration of timber over time due to exposure to weather, wear and tear, and mechanical damage, which may compromise structural integrity. 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.

4.           To facilitate a smooth transition for the industry, timber scaffolds set up before 1 January 2027 can still be used for a duration of 9 months. Any new timber scaffold that is set up at these sites from 1 January 2027 will be subject to the new permissible duration of 3 months. Extension for the use of timber scaffolds beyond the permissible duration may be granted on a case-by-case basis, based on extenuating circumstances such as technical constraints.

Introducing fire performance requirements for scaffold nettings

5.           Together with SCDF, MOM is reviewing the introduction of fire performance requirements for netting that envelops scaffold set up outside buildings. Obligations to ensure that the netting conforms to the new requirements may be placed on scaffold contractors, netting manufacturers, netting suppliers and/or other relevant parties in the industry. This measure aims to reduce the risk of flame spread in the event of a fire. More details will be shared ahead of its implementation to ensure sufficient lead time is provided for industry to transition to these new requirements.

Building Safer Workplaces Through Stronger Scaffold Fire Safety Measures

6.           The shift towards reduced use of timber scaffolds, together with the review of fire performance requirements for scaffold nettings, marks an important step forward in lowering scaffold fire risks. They will also enhance overall worksite safety, improve housekeeping conditions, and strengthen risk control in construction operations. MOM will continue to work closely with industry to ensure that these changes are implemented effectively and that safety remains a shared priority across the construction sector.