SINGAPORE - The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) is investigating the death of a domestic worker who is believed to have fallen while cleaning windows.

The woman was

found lying motionless at the foot of a Toa Payoh HDB block

Her employer told Chinese-language news outlet Shin Min Daily News that the domestic worker had likely fallen while cleaning windows, adding that the helper had begun employment only on Sept 20.

In response to queries from The Straits Times, an MOM spokesperson said on Oct 3: “We are deeply concerned about such incidents and would like to remind all employers of the importance of ensuring the safety of their migrant domestic workers.”

The ministry advised employers to guide domestic workers on safe practices when performing tasks such as window cleaning.

“This includes checking that window grilles are properly installed and locked before any cleaning is carried out,” said the spokesperson.

All first-time employers and domestic workers are educated on essential safety measures during the Employers’ Orientation Programme and Settling-In Programme, said the ministry. These programmes include practical guidance on how to clean windows safely, it added.

Executive director of the Centre for Domestic Employees Michael Lim, in a media response on Sept 30, urged employers and domestic workers to prioritise safety and to exercise caution when performing household tasks.

However, domestic workers may face difficulty refusing work that is dangerous or illegal, said Humanitarian Organisation for Migration Economics.

The charity’s director of casework and legal Jaya Anil Kumar said on Oct 1: “Many migrant domestic workers, particul...