If you’ve noticed that your windows are in need of some tender loving care (TLC), it’s time to take action.
While checking your windows might not be high on your to-do list, recent reports of fallen windows in Singapore suggest it’s an important measure to ensure your family’s safety.
According to The Straits Times, there were 35 cases of fallen windows in Singapore from January to November 2023.
Of these 35 cases, 19 of them involved casement windows.
A casement window is a window or part of a window that opens on hinges, pivots, or friction stays.
This marks an increase compared to the 33 cases reported for 2022, which included 17 cases related to casement windows, 15 involving sliding windows, and one for a louvre window, as reported by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA).
The incidents in 2023 included 15 cases related to sliding windows and one concerning a louvre window, as confirmed by a joint statement from the BCA and the Housing Board on 12 December 2023.
Thankfully, no injuries were reported in these incidents.
Reasons for Window Panels Falling
According to investigations, the primary cause of casement window panels falling out is the presence of corroded and weakened rivets, which are no longer capable of securing the panels in place.
In cases involving sliding windows, the leading factor is the absence of proper safety stoppers and angle strips.
These components are essential for keeping sliding window panels within their tracks and preventing them from becoming dislodged.
The BCA advises homeowners to ensure that safety stoppers and angle strips are installed and promptly replace any that are worn or damaged.
BCA emphasises the importance of addressing falling windows as they pose significant safety risks.
Given Singapore’s densely built environment and the prevalence of high-rise buildings, falling glass shards can result in severe injuries and have serious consequences.
Thanabal Kaliannan, BCA’s group director for building resilience, underscores the potential hazards associated with falling windows.
Since 2004, BCA has issued retrofitting orders mandating homeowners to replace aluminium rivets with stainless steel counterparts in casement windows.
Penalties for Failing to Comply with Replacing Aluminium Rivets in Casement Windows
Failure to comply with replacing all aluminium rivets in casement windows with stainless steel ones can result in homeowners facing penalties of up to $5,000 in fines, imprisonment for up to six months, or both.
Additionally, if a window falls due to insufficient maintenance, homeowners may be liable for penalties of up to $10,000 in fines, imprisonment for up to one year, or both.
Since 2006, 406 individuals have received fines, while 94 individuals have faced prosecution concerning incidents involving fallen windows.
Guide to Maintaining Windows
According to the Housing & Development Board (HDB), it is crucial to prioritise the regular maintenance of windows for safety reasons.
Windows in your flat are continuously exposed to the elements, including rain and wind.
Therefore, it’s important to perform maintenance as windows can deteriorate over time due to normal wear and tear.
Homeowners and occupants are strongly advised to inspect and maintain their windows at least once every six months, as window panels can become detached and fall due to loosened or defective parts caused by wear and tear over time.
Residents can refer to HDB’s website for a more detailed guide and video demonstration on how to conduct window checks.
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