Steps being taken to tackle HDB lift breakdowns
We refer to Mr Cheang Peng Wah’s letter “Explanation needed for spate of HDB lift problems” (July 13).
Singapore has 63,000 passenger lifts, with around 25,000 in Housing and Development Board (HDB) estates. The Building and Construction Authority’s regular audits indicate that most lifts here are in good condition and safe to operate.
In 2015 and last year, about 20 out of every 1,000 lifts broke down each month in HDB estates — an improvement on 2013 and 2014, which saw about 30 breakdowns out of every 1,000 lifts each month.
Nevertheless, the Ministry of National Development and its statutory boards have been taking proactive measures to improve lift safety and reliability.
The BCA has recently enhanced its regulatory regime for contractors to undertake the monthly maintenance of lifts according to specific requirements. From Sept 1, owners have to display the BCA-issued Permit to Operate when their lifts undergo annual inspection.
The HDB also has a comprehensive set of quality-control measures, spanning procurement, installation and commissioning, to ensure that the lifts in its blocks are fit for operation.
To help town councils with their regular maintenance of HDB lifts, the MND has introduced more grants and financial support, to improve maintenance and also to retrofit older lifts with the latest safety features.
We are also working with the industry to ensure a competent and sustainable lift maintenance workforce. This includes building up technical competencies and encouraging the adoption of new technologies.
All of us, including lift users, must work together to ensure that lifts continue to function well and are safe for everyday use.
