A domestic helper was taken to hospital after falling from a Sengkang flat while cleaning windows on Thursday, 8 October.
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) told AsiaOne that the helper was cleaning windows when she fell and confirmed that it is investigating the incident.
Fall Occurred At Rivervale Drive
The incident happened at Block 121A Rivervale Drive at about 10:30am.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force took the woman to Khoo Teck Puat Hospital. Lianhe Zaobao reported that she had fallen from a second-floor unit.
Locked Grilles And Adult Supervision Required
MOM’s safety agreement sets out two requirements for helpers cleaning the outside of windows: the windows must have grilles that remain secured throughout the task, and the employer or an adult acting on their behalf must be there to supervise.
These requirements apply to window exteriors except those at ground level or facing a common corridor.
The helper must stay inside the room while cleaning. Only her arms may extend past the window ledge.
The supervising adult must also understand the safety requirements and be capable of overseeing the work. Having someone present does not remove the requirement for secured window grilles.
Employers Can Face Fines, Jail And Hiring Restrictions
In a parliamentary reply dated 14 October 2025, MOM said employers who breach the window-cleaning safety requirements can face a fine of up to S$10,000, imprisonment of up to 12 months, or both.
They may also lose permission to employ a migrant domestic worker.
MOM said first-time employers and first-time helpers must attend orientation programmes before employment begins. These cover safety precautions for household work, including window cleaning.
Employers and helpers must also sign a safety agreement before the helper starts work, with an exception when renewing an existing helper’s contract.
The agreement records whether the employer requires exterior window cleaning and the restrictions that apply. The employment agency must arrange for it to be signed, and the helper’s copy must be in her native language so she can understand the requirements.
