USB ports on S'pore public buses use ‘significantly lower voltage’, reducing electrocution risk: LTA

The USB charging ports on Singapore's public buses utilise significantly lower voltage than wall sockets, and hence, present a lower risk of electrocution.

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) made this statement after a Malaysian man was electrocuted to death while charging his phone on a bus earlier this month.

Charging ports on public buses in Singapore operate at a voltage of 5V DC (direct current). On the other hand, a standard three-pin socket operates at 230V AC (alternating current).

The man who died was using an electric socket to charge his phone while travelling on an express bus to Kuala Lumpur.

Under normal conditions, 5V is too weak to drive a current through the human body. Hence, the risk of electrocution is low.

Currently, about 15 per cent of Singapore public buses are equipped with USB charging ports.

An LTA spokesperson told Mothership that local bus operators conduct monthly routine inspections to ensure that buses are reliable and safe. They added that LTA also performs regular audits to ensure that the bus operators meet maintenance standards.

Malaysia bans three-pin sockets and USB ports on buses

Investigations following the tragic accident in Malaysia found that the express bus had faulty electrical wiring that was installed by unauthorised personnel.

The wiring between the distribution box and the faulty socket was installed in reverse.

In addition, the electrical equipment in the bus did not meet safety standards.

The accident has prompted Malaysia to ban the use of three-pin sockets and USB ports on express buses.

Top image: LTA