Singapore: Yesterday’s accident at Sembcorp Marine’s Jurong Shipyard, when one of the legs of a jackup rig failed causing the rig to tilt to one side, has shocked Singapore and the local shipbuilding industry.
According to the latest statement from the yard, as of 7:30pm last night, 77 of the 89 workers admitted to hospital had been discharged. Of the 12 remaining workers, six remain in normal wards while six remain under observation.
Here is a selection of the local reaction to the accident:
Semborp Marine
“The shipyard is presently investigating the cause of the incident. As investigations are in progress, the company is unable to provide further details at this stage.”
Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong
“It was a serious accident, but could have been worse. The investigations will find out what went wrong, and needs to be put right.”
Senior Parliamentary Secretary (SPS) for Manpower Hawazi Daipi
“This is one of the worst industrial accidents we have seen in recent times. The priority now is to look after the injured and ensure that they receive the best care possible. It is also important to stabilize the situation at the work site and investigate the accident thoroughly to find out what went wrong.”
Acting Minister for Manpower, TAN Chuan-Jin
“Today’s accident at Jurong Shipyard affected the lives of 90 workers – I was very relieved to hear there were no fatalities. Accidents happen but we must do our utmost to prevent it from happening where we can.”
According to Tan “MOM is currently conducting a thorough investigation into the accident.” [04/12/12]
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