Navigating Regulatory Changes and Emerging Trends: What's Ahead for Singapore's Construction Industry in 2024

Introduction

As Singapore's construction sector braces for regulatory shifts and navigates projected demand trends, it's also poised to adapt to emerging industry dynamics. Let's explore both regulatory changes and emerging industry trends that will define the construction landscape in 2024.

1. Workforce Restructuring: MOM's Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC)

Effective January 1, 2024, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) implements substantial changes. The removal of the Man-Year Entitlement framework and reduction of the Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC) to 1:5 (1 local employee to 5 Work Permit Holders/S Pass Holders) in the Construction sector will reshape workforce dynamics. This move, aimed at fostering local employment, means companies must adapt their staffing strategies and may need to explore innovative solutions to meet project demands.

2. Off-site Levy Scheme (OLS)

Introduced by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA), the Off-site Levy Scheme (OLS) marks a pivotal moment for the industry. Commencing on January 1, 2024, the scheme imposes new levy structures for off-site construction, with rates as low as S$250 per worker. This initiative aims to incentivise the adoption of technologies, such as Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) and a worker management system potentially revolutionising project delivery and efficiency.

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3. Mandatory Top Executive WSH Programme for CEOs and Board Directors

1st March 2024 marks a deadline for CEOs and Board Directors in key industries, including Construction, Manufacturing, Transport, and Storage, and Marine, to attend a one-off Top Executive Workplace Safety & Health (WSH) programme. This requirement underscores the critical role of leadership in fostering a culture of safety and underscores Singapore's commitment to enhancing workplace well-being.

4. Embracing Technological Advancements for Safety Enhancement

Come April 1, 2024, significant enhancements in workplace safety and health (WSH) standards take effect. Firstly, the Extension in the Safety Disqualification (SDQ) Framework for public construction tenders not using the Price Quality Method (PQM), in which the tenders are called under the BCA Construction Workheads (CW01 & CW02) and Construction Related Workheads (ME & CR). This new framework introduces penalties for poor WSH performance, fostering a culture of accountability.

Secondly, there are also Enhancements in the Safety-related Tender Evaluation Criteria. The new criteria applies to all public sector construction tenders ≥ S$3 million, under the BCA Construction Workheads (CW01 & CW02) using PQM.

Additionally, the new criteria also applies for project tenders under the BCA Construction Workheads (CW01 & CW02) and Construction Related Workheads (ME & CR) with the project value of > S$1 million and not using the PQM.

Refer to the table below the revised changes for the safety-related tender evaluation criteria.

Thirdly, the mandate for main contractors in public sector construction and construction-related projects to adopt Mature WSH technology such as Electronic Permit-to-Work (ePTW) System and Vehicular Safety Technology (VST) in projects exceeding $3 million underscores Singapore's commitment to leveraging innovation for safety and productivity gains.

5. Enhancing Site Security with Video Surveillance Systems (VSS)

Starting in June 2024, a new regulation mandates the installation of Video Surveillance Systems (VSS) at construction sites with project values of $5 million and above. These systems, comprising cameras, monitors, and recorders, serve multiple purposes, including surveillance, identification of workplace safety and health risks, facilitating incident investigation, and deterring unsafe behaviours. This initiative aims to enhance site security and safety, providing real-time monitoring and intervention capabilities to mitigate risks and ensure compliance with WSH regulations.

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With regulatory changes on the horizon, Singapore's construction industry gears up to embrace transformative trends set to redefine its path in 2024.

Projected Construction Industry Trends

Steady Growth in Construction Output

With projected demand and recent contract awards as indicators, the construction output in Singapore is poised to rise, estimated between S$34 billion and S$37 billion in 2024. This sustained upward trend underscores the industry's optimism and trajectory of growth.

Diverse Portfolio of Projects

The BCA forecasts total construction demand, including contract values, to range from S$32 billion to S$38 billion in 2024. Notably, the public sector is set to lead this demand, contributing between S$18 billion and S$21 billion. Major public projects encompass public housing and infrastructure initiatives, such as the Cross Island Line (Phase 2), new Housing and Development Board (HDB) developments, and infrastructure endeavours like Changi Airport Terminal 5 (T5) and Tuas Port developments. This diverse project portfolio spans various sectors, bolstering the industry's resilience.

Stability in Private Sector Demand

Expectations indicate stable private sector construction demand, ranging from S$14 billion to S$17 billion in 2024. Anticipated sources of private sector demand include residential developments through Government Land Sales, expansions of Integrated Resorts, commercial premises redevelopment, and the development of mixed-use properties and industrial facilities.

BCA’s Contribution

While there is steady demand in the sector, there are geopolitical and economic uncertainties, which the sector needs to manage. BCA will continue with efforts under the Built Environment Industry Transformation Map to build the sector’s resilience amid a more challenging environment.

Conclusion

As Singapore's construction industry braces for regulatory shifts, anticipates sustained demand growth, and adapts to emerging industry trends in 2024, proactive adaptation is key. Looking ahead to the WSH 2028 Vision, the industry is challenged to embrace technology-enabled solutions and collaborative training methodologies. By strengthening WSH ownership, enhancing focus on workplace health, and promoting technology-enabled WSH, stakeholders aim to achieve sustained reductions in workplace injuries, minimise occupational hazards, promote workforce health, and foster a culture of zero harm.

In conclusion, as Singapore's construction industry navigates regulatory changes, projected demand trends, and transformative visions for WSH, collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to best practices are paramount. By working together towards common goals and embracing technology-driven solutions, the industry charts a course towards resilience, growth, and global recognition as a leader in workplace safety and construction excellence.

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