Banning lorries from transporting workers not feasible partly due to 'acute shortage' of bus drivers: Amy Khor

The banning of lorries to transport workers might not be practical or viable for smaller companies, said Senior Minister of State Amy Khor.

Khor added that banning the use of lorries is also not feasible due to a shortage of bus drivers which the public transport, tour bus and school bus sectors already experience.

This was in response to a question by Member of Parliament Louis Ng, who asked if the Ministry of Transport received feedback on improving the safety of workers transported on the back of lorries and banning the transport of workers on the back of lorries.

The average number of workers injured when transported on the back of a lorry fell by more than 25 per cent, from 215 between 2015 and 2019 to 161 between 2020 and 2024.

Significant impact on SMEs

Khor noted that while the suggestion to ban the use of lorries is well-intentioned, it is not a practical solution for some contractors, particularly those micro, small and medium enterprises.

"It is neither practical nor viable for the employers to have different vehicles and drivers to transport a small number of workers separately from their equipment and goods," said Khor.

She used the example of specialist trades that must transport a small crew of workers and equipment to several locations within a day and ensure that workers and equipment arrive at the site simultaneously to minimise downtime.

Khor noted that banning the use of lorries will significantly impact the viability of smaller enterprises. Many could be forced to shut down, and local and foreign workers could lose their jobs.

This would also lead to delays in critical projects like housing, schools, and hospitals, which would result in higher costs for Singaporeans.

"A balance need to be struck to protect the lives and livelihoods of workers, and to look after the well-being of all Singaporeans," said Khor.

The govt is making efforts to reduce need to transport workers

Khor shared that the government takes a multi-pronged approach.

Firstly, the government aims to reduce the need to transport workers by facilitating the co-location of worker dormitories near where they work.

In addition, they encourage alternatives to lorries such as buses, and have been engaging the industry associations to encourage their members to transport their workers on buses.

Lastly, the government is also looking to make it safer when employers to use lorries to ferry their workers.

Such measures include requiring dual-role drivers or sufficient rest for workers with driving responsibilities.

In addition, the Traffic Police has been working with the industry to implement speed limiters in all lorries with maximum laden weight between 3,501kg and 12,000kg.

"The government is committed to continue working closely with our stakeholders to improve the safety of our workers and all road users, but we want to do so in a practical and effective manner."

Top photos via Migrant Death Map & MDDI/YouTube