The relevant authorities must investigate thoroughly the cause of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) construction collapse at the Kota Damansara MRT site on Aug 18, 2014. They also need to evaluate if the projects carried out had fully adhered to the standard operating procedures (SOP) and must take necessary remedial actions at once.

The mishap has resulted in the deaths of three construction workers. Of late, there have been many misfortunes occurring at MRT sites which have eroded public confidence on the safety of the project.

The authorities must establish a comprehensive monitoring system to ensure strict compliance to the SOP in all aspects with safety being their utmost priority. Any problem or weakness must be immediately rectified with the person in-charge held accountable.

Obviously there was no lesson learned from the previous incidences where preventive measures have not been seriously taken. If those were undertaken, at least we could perhaps reduce the extent of the damage when an untoward incidence occurs.

All the relevant units involved in the MRT project must cooperate, coordinate and be highly sensitive to safety issues at all times.

This will considerably reduce workplace accidents, especially for the under-construction projects. Night shifts may not be avoidable, but the contractors must also take into account their workers’ energy and concentration level after working for such long hours.

SENATOR CHAI KIM SEN is MCA Publicity Bureau chairperson and MCA deputy national organising secretary.