Five construction companies charged for employment-related offences

SINGAPORE - The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) charged five construction companies in the State Courts today for failing to comply with the Employment Act (EA).

The companies are JK Integrated Pte Ltd, Ng Brothers Scaffolding Pte Ltd, Shanghai Tunnel Engineering Co. Ltd, Shanghai Tunnel Engineering Co. (Singapore) Pte Ltd, and Straits Construction (S) Pte Ltd.

A press statement released today revealed that construction workers from three companies were found to have worked overtime hours that exceeded the legal 72 hours per month. Four companies also failed to pay their workers on time, withheld their workers' salaries or made unauthorised deductions from them.

Employers are cautioned to be familiar with and fulfil their legal obligations, and ensure that employees receive their statutory benefits under Singapore's employment laws, such as the EA and the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.

In addition, MOM will step up engagement with the construction sector to highlight these legal obligations and common employment malpractices.

MOM will take action against companies that flout or disregard local employment laws. Errant companies are urged to review and rectify illegal and unreasonable clauses in their employment contracts.

Workers or members of the public with information on employment-related offences may call the MOM hotline at (65) 6438 5122 or email MOM at mom_lrwd@mom.gov.sg. All details will be kept strictly confidential.

minlee@sph.com.sg