Singapore LTA Engineer Counselled After Viral Video Shows Him Berating Construction Worker

Investigation into Workplace Incident

A recent incident involving an engineer from Singapore's Land Transport Authority (LTA) has drawn significant public attention after a video of him confronting a construction site worker went viral online. The footage shows the LTA engineer verbally reprimanding the worker at the Changi East Depot worksite, an important infrastructure project in Singapore.

The video, widely shared across social media platforms, depicts the engineer shouting at what appear to be foreign workers and, in one instance, reportedly striking a worker's helmet with a driver's license. Sources indicate that the engineer's outburst was allegedly in response to the worker not wearing a seat belt, highlighting a potential workplace safety concern.

LTA's Response to the Incident

Following the emergence of the video, the Land Transport Authority promptly addressed the situation. The LTA acknowledged the footage and publicly stated that the engineer's conduct was inappropriate and did not align with the professional standards expected of its personnel. This swift response underscores the authority's commitment to maintaining respectful and proper interactions within its work environments and with its partners.

As a result of their internal review, the LTA confirmed that the engineer involved in the incident has been counselled. Counselling is typically a form of guidance or disciplinary action aimed at addressing unacceptable behaviour and ensuring that employees understand and adhere to company policies and professional ethics. This step indicates that the LTA has taken the matter seriously and has initiated measures to rectify the situation and prevent similar occurrences.

The incident has sparked discussions among the public regarding workplace conduct, the treatment of foreign workers, and the importance of maintaining professional decorum, even when addressing safety violations. It serves as a reminder that all individuals in a supervisory role are expected to manage situations calmly and professionally.

What happens next

While the LTA has already counselled the engineer, the broader implications of the viral video may continue to be discussed. The incident could prompt further review of communication protocols and enforcement methods for safety regulations at construction sites, especially those involving large teams and diverse workforces. The LTA and its contractors will likely reinforce the importance of respectful communication and appropriate incident management to prevent future escalations and ensure a harmonious working environment for all.