16 Contractors Rated ‘Poor’ or ‘Very Poor’ for Site Safety: Government Reveals

Between 2021 and 2025, the government has revealed that 16 contractors were rated ‘poor’ or ‘very poor’ for their site safety. Technical competence and past performance account for 40% to 50% of the overall score, with site safety making up about one-third of the technical score. A contractor with an accident rate exceeding 0.3 reportable accidents per 100,000 man-hours worked or a serious bodily injury incident will be rated ‘poor’. A fatal accident will automatically result in a ‘very poor’ rating.

The government has disclosed that 16 contractors were rated "poor" or "very poor" for site safety over the period between 2021 and 2025, according to quarterly performance reports. During this timeframe, the highest number of "very poor" ratings—seven contractors—was recorded in 2023. In addition, contractors are assessed based on technical competence and past performance, with site safety accounting for approximately 30 percent of the technical score. Contractors with an accident rate above 0.3 reportable accidents per 100,000 man-hours can receive a "poor" rating, while serious injuries or fatalities result in a "very poor" rating. If serious cases arise, the Development Bureau can exclude contractors from public works contracts and the Housing Authority can penalize them with deducted safety scores. The government is also working to increase the use of the Smart Site Safety System (4S) to enhance safety monitoring.

The site safety evaluation system takes into account various factors such as technical capabilities, past performance, and specific emphasis on site safety to assess contractors' suitability for public works contracts. A contractor's overall score is crucial as it can affect their future tender eligibility. The government continuously revises and updates its monitoring mechanisms to ensure stringent safety standards across all public construction projects. By integrating the 4S system with AI technology, the Housing Authority aims to proactively address potential safety hazards and improve overall contractor performance.

This monitoring system reflects the government's strong commitment to workplace safety in public projects and ensures accountability among contractors. The use of technology in safety assessment provides a more comprehensive and real-time view of site conditions, which is essential in preventing accidents. As the system matures, it is expected to lead to a safer working environment for all construction workers and enhance public confidence in the infrastructure developed through these projects. Comprehensive safety measures and regular evaluations underscore the government's dedication to maintaining high standards of construction site safety.