SPAN investigates drowning of maintenance worker at Saujana Perdana tower, safety checks under spotlight

Tragedy struck at the Saujana Perdana water tower in Kuala Selangor, where a maintenance worker lost his life in a drowning incident on June 16. The National Water Services Commission (SPAN) has launched an investigation into the accident, which has raised serious concerns over the implementation of safety checks in the industry.

Background & Context

The Saujana Perdana water tower is a critical infrastructure that supplies water to thousands of households in the surrounding area. Routine maintenance work is essential to ensure the tower's optimal functioning and prevent accidents. However, the recent incident has highlighted the need for stricter safety protocols to prevent such tragedies.

The investigation by SPAN has shed light on the complexities of confined-space work and the importance of adhering to safety procedures. The commission's findings suggest that the contractor responsible for the maintenance work was registered with SPAN and held a valid permit, but there may have been non-compliance with confined-space safety procedures.

Key Details

According to SPAN, the initial findings suggest that there may have been non-compliance with confined-space safety procedures, including workers entering the site without approval and prior to safety verification. The commission stated that it received information on the incident on June 17 and visited the site the following day. Routine water tank cleaning was conducted on June 16 by the appointed vendor, during which two workers encountered difficulties near a 200mm scour point.

One of the workers was rescued, while the other was reported to have become trapped in the area. Emergency cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was administered, but the victim was confirmed dead before being taken to UiTM Hospital for a post-mortem examination. The initial cause of death was identified as drowning. The Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) conducted a site inspection on June 17, 2026, and issued a prohibition notice.

A joint follow-up visit was carried out on June 18 by SPAN, Air Selangor, and DOSH to establish the cause of the incident. The commission stated that it views the incident with utmost seriousness, given that it resulted in a loss of life. SPAN said that it will take appropriate action against any party found to have failed to comply with required procedures, including Air Selangor or a SPAN permit holder.

What Experts Say

Experts in the field of occupational safety and health have emphasized the importance of adhering to safety protocols during confined-space work. They have also highlighted the need for stricter regulations and enforcement to prevent such accidents in the future. The incident at the Saujana Perdana water tower has raised concerns over the implementation of safety checks in the industry and the need for greater transparency and accountability.

Key Takeaways

• The National Water Services Commission (SPAN) is conducting an investigation into the fatal accident at the Saujana Perdana water tower.
• The initial findings suggest that there may have been non-compliance with confined-space safety procedures, including workers entering the site without approval and prior to safety verification.
• SPAN has stated that it will take appropriate action against any party found to have failed to comply with required procedures.
• The incident has raised concerns over the implementation of safety checks in the industry and the need for greater transparency and accountability.

What This Means For You

The incident at the Saujana Perdana water tower has highlighted the importance of prioritizing safety in the workplace. It is essential for employers and contractors to adhere to safety protocols and regulations to prevent such accidents in the future. The public also has a role to play in ensuring that safety checks are implemented effectively.

In the wake of this incident, it is crucial for SPAN, DOSH, and other regulatory bodies to work together to strengthen adherence to safety protocols, confined-space work supervision, contractor management, and on-site risk control. This will not only prevent similar incidents in the future but also ensure the well-being of workers in the industry.